Romelu Lukaku hardly made an impact in Roma’s 2-0 defeat to Slavia Prague in the Europa League, generating criticism from the Italian press.
The Giallorossi were far too disappointing in their European encounter at the Fortuna Arena, falling in a 2-0 loss after second half goals from Vaclav Jurecka and Lukas Masopust. The result means Slavia Prague have now leapfrogged Roma in Group G, ahead at the top on goal difference.
Roma have started to recover their form domestically and are now gearing up for the Derby della Capitale against rivals Lazio, one of the most important matches of their season. The Europa League defeat has done little to generate confidence for Jose Mourinho’s side.
One player who failed to impress for Roma in their loss to Slavia Prague was Lukaku, who took just one shot and played only 11 passes, failing to make any major contributions as his team stumbled to defeat.
La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted Lukaku’s issues in the match, writing: “It’s true that he always played with his back to goal, but he has poor mobility and lost more balls than anyone (16).”
Corriere dello Sport also noted the Belgian striker’s isolation on the pitch, commenting: “Left alone so much. He did what he could, but he was too stubborn with the ball between his feet.”
Il Messaggero spoke about Lukaku’s on-pitch frustrations and failure to drive his team forward, saying: “He spent the first half arguing with his teammates, asking for a playable ball. The team’s score in the first 45 minutes (0 shots, corners and crosses) suggests he had a point. It must also be said, however, that of the few balls he received, he didn’t hold back one.”
Lukaku’s ratings in the Italian newspapers
Gazzetta dello Sport: 5.5
Tuttosport: 5.5
Corriere dello Sport: 5
Il Messaggero: 5