Romelu Lukaku has announced the passing of his father, Roger Menama Lukaku, aged 58, in an emotional tribute shared on social media. The Belgian striker posted: “Thank you for teaching me everything I know. I will always be grateful. Life will never be the same, and neither will I. Pain and tears flow. But God will give me strength. Thank you for everything.”
Roger Lukaku was a Congolese footballer who spent much of his career in Belgium, playing as a striker for clubs including KV Mechelen, KV Oostende, Germinal Ekeren, and Seraing. He also represented Zaire (now DR Congo) internationally in the 1990s. According to his Wikipedia profile, he died on 28 September 2025.
Romelu and his younger brother Jordan both followed in their father’s footsteps into professional football. Jordan has played in various European leagues and continues to bear the weight of the family’s legacy.
Roger’s influence extended well beyond his playing days. He was instrumental in shaping Romelu’s early ambitions, instilling values of discipline and passion for the game. Many in the football community have expressed condolences, recognizing that the relationship between father and son transcended mere genetics — it was a guiding bond.
In his tribute, Romelu called his father “my protector” and “guide,” acknowledging that his absence now leaves a vacuum in both life and mindset. The pain of loss is evident in his words, yet he held firm to a belief that faith will help him endure: “Pain and tears flow. But God will give me strength.”
Going forward, Lukaku faces the task of balancing personal grief with professional demands. He is currently at Napoli, where injuries have kept him on the sidelines. His return to play is uncertain, but many expect he will channel personal resolve into renewed focus on the pitch.
In honoring his father, Lukaku not only mourns a parent, but also the quiet force behind a career that has taken him across Europe’s biggest stages. As tributes pour in from teammates, fans, and fellow professionals, one thing is clear: Roger Lukaku’s legacy will live on in every step Romelu takes.
Africa Digital News, New York
