Manchester United have employed some of the most recognisable centre-forwards in modern football, but few have followed a more winding career path than Romelu Lukaku.

The Belgian arrived at Old Trafford in 2017 after establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most productive strikers at Everton.

His powerful frame and ability to attack the penalty area made him an important part of Jose Mourinho’s plans during his first season.

Romelu Lukaku scored 27 goals in all competitions in that season, although his United career ultimately lasted only two seasons.

He left for Inter Milan in 2019, later returning to Chelsea before spells with Roma and Napoli.

His latest move has taken him into one of European football’s most fiercely contested rivalries.

Romelu Lukaku involved in massive brawl

Lukaku was caught up in heated confrontations and a mass brawl as Fenerbahce suffered a 2-1 defeat to Galatasaray in Istanbul’s Intercontinental Derby over the weekend.

The trouble started almost immediately.

Within the opening seconds, Lukaku clashed with Galatasaray captain Abdulkerim Bardakci during a challenge for the ball, sparking a confrontation involving players from both sides.

The tension eventually boiled over again after the final whistle, when players, coaching staff and security personnel became involved in a series of altercations.

Fenerbahce defender Archie Brown was involved in a particularly heated exchange with Bardakci, with the pair wrestling to the ground.

Galatasaray secured the victory through a first-half brace from Victor Osimhen, while Irfan Can Kahveci scored Fenerbahce’s consolation goal in the second half.

The 33-year-old joined Fenerbahce from Napoli in August 2026, signing a one-year contract with an option to extend for another season.

The move brought him back to Turkey, where he spent time as a child while his father played for Genclerbirligi.

The derby’s fallout has also drawn attention to former United forward Mason Greenwood, who plays for Marseille, and Guendouzi.

Both were reportedly among those sanctioned by UEFA over offensive gestures during a Champions League match in August, adding to the scrutiny surrounding Fenerbahce’s turbulent season.

Fenerbahce have called for an investigation into the derby incidents, while Galatasaray have rejected their rivals’ accusations and offered a different account of the confrontation.