Romelu Lukaku demonstrated respect for Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen by refusing to take the No. 9 jersey upon joining Napoli.
Lukaku signed with Napoli on the final day of the transfer window, initially expected to replace Osimhen, who had been linked with a move to Chelsea. However, Osimhen’s transfer fell through, and Napoli subsequently excluded him from the team’s roster for the season.
Despite the situation, Lukaku chose not to wear Osimhen’s iconic No. 9 shirt. According to reports from Tuttonapoli and Il Mattino, Lukaku declined the offer out of respect for Osimhen, opting instead for the No. 11 jersey.
Lukaku made a strong debut for Napoli, scoring a crucial equaliser in their 2-1 victory over Parma in Serie A. His goal in the 92nd minute set the stage for Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa’s 96th-minute winner, securing Napoli’s second consecutive win.
