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That dream start!
When Romelu Lukaku moved to Manchester United from Everton for a whopping £75 million last summer, fans and critics had varying opinions on what to expect from him. Lukaku started his campaign with 11 goals in his first 10 matches for Manchester United - silencing all doubters and making his presence felt amidst the already star-studded squad.
The departure of Wayne Rooney to his former club, Everton, ensured that Lukaku would be looking at regular appearances. Moreover, a knee injury that forced Zlatan Ibrahimovic out for months--only further cemented Lukaku’s position as United’s primary forward.
The slump
Although Lukaku had an amazing start to the season, the last few months have seen a slump in both his form and his confidence. Since October, Lukaku has made 19 appearances for the Red Devils but has managed to find the back of the net only 4 times.
It has been suggested that the absence of Zlatan due to injury put extra pressure on Lukaku, and that the recent slump in performance could be the result of a burnout. Lukaku has started and played every minute of every United match this season so far. With Jose Mourinho making Champions League fixtures his top priority, most key players in the squad have found it difficult to get ample mid-week rest. Such intense matchplay certainly takes its toll on the body.
Strength over Speed?
Another plausible reason for the recent lapse in Lukaku's goal-scoring is his change in physique. UK news agency Metro reported that since joining United, Lukaku has been focusing on bulking up to improve strength.
Such bulking up, while boosting strength, often comes at the cost of lost speed. Lukaku's gameplay in recent matches against Bristol City and Leicester City do suggest that Lukaku might have gotten slower than before.
Realistic Targets for United
United started the season on an excellent note - much of it was thanks to Lukaku's great form. However, the past few months witnessed United carelessly dropping points against sides they would have normally demolished.
As things stand, United are 15 points adrift of their noisy (unbeaten!) neighbours, Manchester City. Given the comfort with which Pep's men are winning league matches, the title is theirs to throw away. In all honesty, Jose Mourinho will probably eye a top-two finish and focus on the Champions League instead.
Mourinho's Options
With the start of the new year, Mourinho is going to look to his strikers to pull the team up. Manchester United have dropped points in their last three matches. Zlatan's return to active play has brought hope to a team that has looked lost for a couple of weeks now.
However, as seen earlier in the season, the team's success depends a lot on Lukaku's performance. Will he regain his magical form or was that dream start just a flash in the pan? Only time will tell.
