Lukaku silences Turkish critics with first Fenerbahce goal after weight accusations

Romelu Lukaku marked his first start for Fenerbahce with a goal in a 3-0 victory over Alanyaspor on Sunday, offering a timely response to a wave of public criticism from Turkish football figures who had questioned his fitness and commitment.

The Belgian striker, 33, had come under fierce attack following Fenerbahce’s 6-0 Europa League defeat to Aston Villa, in which he was introduced only in the 66th minute with the score already at 4-0. Former Besiktas coach Sinan Engin led the criticism, saying: “Lukaku, aren’t you ashamed? Don’t you ever look in a mirror? My advice: stop eating anything after 6pm because you’re putting on weight. Get yourself a nutritionist and a personal trainer. How did Lukaku score all those goals? Is this really the right Lukaku who came? You can’t fool us.”

Former Fenerbahce player Semih Senturk was more measured but equally concerned: “I expected a lot from Lukaku, but it’s very disappointing. What’s going to happen if he plays three or four matches in a row?”

The criticism echoes episodes from earlier in Lukaku’s career. During his two-year spell at Manchester United, he reportedly returned for pre-season 9lbs above his target weight before being sold to Inter Milan. Similar concerns were raised at Napoli, where Antonio Conte reportedly ordered him to lose 20lbs.

Fenerbahce had pre-empted some of the scrutiny when Lukaku arrived as a free agent in the summer. Sporting director Oguz Cetin said at the time: “We should not expect miracles from Lukaku in the short term. Steps must be taken to make him stronger. We will work on improving his physical condition. His integration into the team will be visible within four to six weeks.”

Sunday’s result lifted Fenerbahce to third in the Super Lig, three points behind leaders and city rivals Galatasaray. The win also eased pressure on head coach Ismail Karta, who had faced calls for his dismissal. The club face Slavia Prague in the Europa League before a high-stakes derby visit to Galatasaray.

Despite the criticism aimed at his overall contribution, Lukaku’s international record remains formidable: 94 goals in 135 appearances for Belgium.