Ex Napoli striker’s Lukaku claim: ‘Best in Serie A’ but still only at 50% | OneFootball

Former Napoli striker Emanuele Calaiò believes that current Partenopei striker Romelu Lukaku is the ‘best’ striker in Serie A, but also feels that he is still only at 50% of his full potential so far in Naples.

The former Serie A journeyman spoke in an interview to Tuttosport published on Sunday.

Calaiò: ‘We haven’t seen the ‘real’ Lukaku yet’

The Belgian has seven goal involvements from his first five Serie A appearances of the 2024-25 campaign, netting three and providing four assists since his move from Chelsea was wrapped up at the end of the summer.

“And he’s still playing at 50% of his condition,” Calaiò said in his interview.

“So far he’s relied on his experience, jostling with opposition defenders and getting on the ball to facilitate the wingers and midfielders. We haven’t seen the real Lukaku yet.

“When he’s in his best condition, we will go back to admiring the Belgian for his plays in front of goal, like his Inter days. He is still the best striker in Serie A. Whether he’s playing well or badly, Lukaku always manages to score 20 goals a season. And he’s a big leader for his teammates.”