Vlahovic or Lukaku? Italian Media Compare the Strikers Before the Derby
Ahead of the Fenerbahçe-Beşiktaş derby, Italian football coverage has focused on the contrasting starts made by the two teams’ high-profile forwards, Dusan Vlahovic and Romelu Lukaku. Although both strikers arrived in Turkey with major reputations, their current situations could hardly be more different.
The comparison places Vlahovic clearly ahead in terms of immediate impact. The Serbian forward has already demonstrated his finishing ability, while Lukaku is still trying to regain match fitness and establish himself in Fenerbahçe’s starting plans.
Lukaku Still Waiting for His First Contribution
Lukaku joined Fenerbahçe after playing a decisive role in Napoli’s fourth Serie A title the previous season. However, a period affected by injury concerns and the financial burden of his salary contributed to the transfer. Despite his experience and status, the Belgian striker has not yet been given a starting role.
The 31-year-old has appeared in four matches for Fenerbahçe, entering the pitch as a substitute in each of them. He was given limited playing time against Konyaspor and Samsunspor, while his opportunities in both Champions League qualifying matches against Lyon came during the final stages.
So far, Lukaku has failed to record either a goal or an assist in a Fenerbahçe shirt. This does not necessarily reflect his long-term potential, but it does show that he remains in the process of adapting to his new team, recovering his rhythm and reaching the physical level required for a demanding derby.
Italian observers close to Napoli have described his performances as broadly in line with expectations considering the minutes he has received. The Belgian forward has not had enough time on the field to display his full range of qualities, including his ability to hold up the ball, attack crosses and create space for teammates.
Vlahovic Makes His Mark with a Hat-Trick
Vlahovic, in contrast, has made a much more powerful start. Beşiktaş’s 6-2 victory over Çorum FK gave the Serbian striker the perfect opportunity to underline his quality, and he responded by scoring three goals.
The performance was particularly significant because Vlahovic was not considered to be at full fitness. Despite that limitation, he found the net three times and provided Beşiktaş with a constant threat inside the penalty area. His movement, physical strength and finishing helped determine the outcome of the match.
The hat-trick also strengthened the belief that Vlahovic can become one of the most influential players in the derby. Beşiktaş will expect him to lead the attacking line, occupy Fenerbahçe’s centre-backs and take advantage of even the smallest defensive errors.
After the match, Vlahovic highlighted his special relationship with coach Italiano. The two had previously worked together during the striker’s time at Fiorentina, and the forward expressed his appreciation for the manager’s contribution to his development.
Vlahovic also thanked teammate Orkun Kökçü for allowing him to take a penalty. Such gestures have helped underline the positive atmosphere around the Beşiktaş squad and the striker’s growing importance within the team.
Two Different Paths Before the Derby
The statistical comparison currently favours Vlahovic. He has already scored, appeared more influential in the final third and shown that he can decide a match. Lukaku, meanwhile, has yet to produce a direct attacking contribution and is still waiting for a longer opportunity.
However, the difference should be interpreted carefully. Vlahovic has benefited from greater involvement, while Lukaku has spent most of his time on the bench. Minutes played, physical preparation and tactical integration all have a major effect on a forward’s numbers.
Lukaku’s strengths could become especially valuable in a derby. His experience in high-pressure matches, ability to protect the ball and physical presence can cause serious problems for Beşiktaş if Fenerbahçe manages to supply him consistently. A single well-timed run or dominant duel could change the perception surrounding his start to the season.
Vlahovic, on the other hand, enters the fixture with momentum. His three-goal performance will increase both his confidence and the expectations placed on him. Beşiktaş may look to use him as the focal point of its attacking transitions, while Fenerbahçe’s defensive plan will likely focus on preventing him from receiving the ball in dangerous areas.
Tactical Battle Could Decide the Outcome
The derby comparison is not limited to individual goalscoring records. The way both teams construct attacks will determine how effective their strikers can be.
If Beşiktaş can deliver early crosses and support Vlahovic with runners from midfield, the Serbian forward will have opportunities to exploit his strength in the box. His ability to finish quickly makes him dangerous even when he has only a few touches.
Fenerbahçe may prefer to use Lukaku as a target man. By playing direct passes toward him, the home side could attempt to move the game into physical duels and create space for attacking midfielders around the Belgian. Lukaku’s hold-up play may also allow Fenerbahçe to escape pressure and advance up the pitch.
The fitness level of both players will be another key factor. Vlahovic is still working toward full sharpness, while Lukaku needs more competitive minutes after his limited involvement. The coaching decisions before and during the match could therefore be decisive.
Vlahovic Has the Advantage, but Lukaku Can Respond
Based on their current form, Vlahovic has a clear advantage over Lukaku before the derby. The Serbian has already delivered a memorable individual performance, while the Belgian remains without a goal or assist for Fenerbahçe.
Nevertheless, Lukaku’s career suggests that he should not be underestimated. His record in major competitions and previous success in Italy demonstrate that he is capable of responding when given responsibility. The derby could provide exactly the kind of stage needed for him to begin a new chapter.
For now, the Italian media’s conclusion is straightforward: Vlahovic is ahead in terms of form, confidence and production. Lukaku still has to prove that he can convert his reputation into immediate results in Turkey. The derby will offer both strikers an opportunity to alter that narrative.