“He plays for the team” – Napoli legend German Denis picks Lukaku over Osimhen

By Monsurah Olatunji 

Former Napoli striker German Denis has supported the club’s decision to replace Victor Osimhen with Romelu Lukaku, stating that the Belgian forward is a better fit for the Partenopei under manager Antonio Conte.

Osimhen played a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic Serie A title win in 2023, ending the club’s 33-year drought.

However, Denis believes that Lukaku’s leadership qualities and vast experience make him a more suitable option for the team moving forward, particularly in the tactical setup under Conte.

“Lukaku is in form and brings a lot to the team,” Denis told Tribal Football. “

“Conte knows exactly what Lukaku brings to the table—his leadership, his playmaking ability, and his generosity on the pitch. He plays for the team, and that is essential for a coach like Conte, who values a cohesive squad.”

While Osimhen’s departure may have been a tough pill to swallow for some Napoli fans, Denis has no doubts about the club’s decision.

He praised Lukaku’s versatility, noting that the former Chelsea striker has shown an ability to provide assists, even in an attacking midfield role, which complements the team’s needs.

“Napoli was built to win,” Denis continued. “The squad is deep, and whoever is called upon always performs well, which is crucial for a coach like Conte, who can rely on his bench. Having that depth will make a difference over the course of the season.”

Although Osimhen has enjoyed a promising start to life at Galatasaray, scoring two goals and providing two assists in his first three games, he is currently sidelined with an injury. However, the Nigerian forward has confirmed that he will return to action immediately after the international break.

Denis, reflecting on Napoli’s choice, was confident in the decision to bring in Lukaku.

“I don’t know if Osimhen would have been as well suited to Napoli as Lukaku is under Conte’s system,” Denis said.

“But from what we’ve seen so far, Napoli made the right choice.”