Manchester United struggles to score goals from time to time. Thus, Mourinho brought in Romelu Lukaku to exactly that: score goals.
The Belgian international found his role in Mourinho’s starting eleven, but pundits question the strikers large price tag.
Lukaku had a superb game against his former club, Chelsea. The Lukaku that the world saw against Chelsea is the Lukaku that Manchester United needs. However, his play in smaller games is what makes people wonder why Mourinho agreed to his massive transfer price.
In pre-season, Lukaku looked to be just what Manchester United needed. Granted, United played against much smaller clubs in pre-season. However, when the Premier League season kicked off, the Belgian often disappeared in matches.
So far, Lukaku found the net 13 times in Premier League play. At this rate, he will not be able to match last season’s performance netting 25 times. Yes, Lukaku struggled to find form at Chelsea. He found his form at Everton. At Manchester United, he is struggling to keep his form. If he can keep his form, there is no reason why Manchester United can make a title challenge next season.
With Zlatan Ibrahimovic injured, Mourinho has very little options in attack. Rashford could step in if Lukaku is really suffering, but his speed is best utilized on the wing. Also, Rashford is not near as physical as Lukaku is. For example, in the Huddersfield match, he shoved off a defender with ease and rocketed a shot in.
Is he worth the massive price tag?
Ultimately, he is not worth the price tag now, but there is a great possibility that he will be in the coming seasons. The 24 year old needs more time. For instance, his time at Everton took multiple seasons to become their leading goal scorer. Presumably, Manchester United fans need to wait because he will find his form. Additionally, learning to play under Mourinho is not easy for any player.
He may not appear to be worth it now, but he will be in the future.
Next: David de Gea's journey to world number 1
In the end, players need time to grow into their roles. Lukaku is no exception to this. Fans need to put their trust in Mourinho because he has a vision. It can be frustrating at times watching games that end in 0-0 draws, but Manchester United will fight for silverware. With the starting eleven that Mourinho possesses, anything is possible.