Former Inter Milan and Juventus striker Aldo Serena understands what Romelu Lukaku is experiencing after the angry rejection of Nerazzurri fans.
Tweeting after the Belgian’s performance for Roma against Inter at the San Siro, Serena talks about the pressure of facing a former fanbase like Lukaku did.
Lukaku started for Roma in Sunday evening’s Serie A match against Inter.
The 30-year-old is a key man for the Giallorossi, particularly in the absence of Paulo Dybala.
But in truth, Lukaku’s start had far more significance than just his quality or importance for Roma.
Lukaku burned his bridges with Inter during the summer transfer window.
The controversial saga saw all of the Nerazzurri directors, fans, and Lukaku’s former teammates turn against the Belgian.
Therefore, Lukaku’s first match back at the San Siro wearing a different shirt was always going to be a big occasion.
This was the first time that the Inter fans had the chance to really show their disapproval for Lukaku.
And they did so with whistles and jeers throughout the match.
Aldo Serena: I’ve Been In The Shoes Of Romelu Lukaku
In truth, Lukaku’s performance hardly lived up to all the hype and controversy, though.
The former Manchester United, Chelsea, and Everton striker had little impact on the match.
It would be speculative to say that this was all because of nerves and emotions at the return to the San Siro.
But at the same time, it would be equally difficult to imagine that these aspects had no effect on the striker’s lack of confidence to be at his best.
Serena tweeted after the match, “I’ve been there.”
“It fee;s like an enormous pressure crushing every pore of your skin.”
“You have to detach yourself, mentally distance yourself from that context of jeers and insults,” he goes on. “And forget about the past – the most difficult part.”
“Romelu didn’t succeed, and the fans got the better of him.”