Lukaku: Why I quit Man Utd and what I’ll do next

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 27 May 2021 09:29 BST
• 4 min read

Romelu Lukaku has revealed why he decided to leave Manchester United two years ago and has explained why Antonio Conte rates him so highly.

Lukaku left Man United under a cloud in the summer of 2019 after losing his place in the first team and having been heavily criticised by fans, ex-players and the media.

He joined Inter for €80 million and has been a revelation in Italy’s fashion capital.

READ MORE: Lukaku silences Man Utd haters

Lukaku has scored 63 goals in 94 games and this season led Inter to their first Scudetto in 11 years.

Meanwhile, Man Utd have failed to win a trophy since his departure, although they are in the final of the Europa League next week.

“Things were not working anymore at United,” Lukaku told Rtbf Sport.

“If you receive a better offer from somewhere else, then why not try it? I had the chance to try something different and it worked for me.”

Lukaku: Statistics in 2020/21

Lukaku has enjoyed a well-publicised bromance with Inter coach Antonio Conte, with the pair never shy to express just how highly they rate one another.

Conte tried to sign Lukaku earlier in his career whilst coach of Juventus and then Chelsea.

So why does the Italian manager like Lukaku so much?

“Because I know how to do everything he wants from me,” Lukaku explained.

“I know how to attack and defend, play inside the box or run into open spaces. And also for my mentality.

“Conte has no fear about hard work, if you play for him, you must be aware you’ll have to work hard.”

Lukaku also revealed what his plans are once his playing career ends.

“I want to become a coach, but I will start from the youth teams and take a step at a time,” he stated.