Napoli, Lukaku off the pitch: Pastorello on his true character | OneFootball

Federico Pastorello, one of the most influential agents in European football and representative of Romelu Lukaku and Alex Meret, shared with FanPage his relationship with his clients, offering a glimpse into the human side of the Belgian striker.

Lukaku beyond the field: Pastorello's behind-the-scenes look at the true face of the striker, including leadership, family, and decisive choices

According to Pastorello, Lukaku's value goes beyond technical boundaries: “He is a leader who guides others not only with performances but with a constant, tangible presence,” the agent explains, revealing details that rarely emerge in media narratives.

The relationship with his clients: between discretion and continuous dialogue

Pastorello distinguishes the personalities of the players he manages. “With some, the dialogue is more discreet, like with Alex Meret, who is very reserved. Lukaku, on the other hand, loves to engage. We often have long phone conversations. Then there's Stefan De Vrij, who prefers to call me on video because he likes having direct contact. But perhaps the most unique chat is with Lukasz Skorupski: we have a shared group that includes his wife, who actively participates in important decisions. We really talk about everything.”

This dynamic shows a way of working that goes beyond the classic agent-player relationship, becoming true personal support.

“Lukaku is a present father and a sensitive man”

In the interview, Pastorello paints a picture of Lukaku far from the stereotypes linked to his physical strength. “He is a very attentive father. He takes care of his kids and follows them with great care. From this, you can understand the quality of the person. People see an imposing athlete, almost a gladiator, but in reality, he is a sensitive man, capable of deep feelings.”

A detail that helps build a different image of the champion: not just power, but also emotional balance, responsibility, and altruism.

The professional break after the transfer to Chelsea

Pastorello also recounts one of the most discussed moments of Lukaku's career: the move from Inter to Chelsea. “That transfer marked the end of our professional relationship. At that moment, when an offer of that level comes, refusing is counterproductive. We thought it was the right opportunity to enhance everything he had built at Inter. Things then didn't go as expected, and he chose to end our collaboration. I respected that decision.”

The separation did not affect the personal bond: “The affection towards him remained unchanged. And indeed, two years later, we started working together again.”

Behind the scenes of a complex deal

Pastorello recalls the moment when the transfer to Chelsea finally became a reality: “It was an exhausting negotiation. When the final approval came, it was a relief. I was in Folgaria, in the middle of Ferragosto. I remember throwing the phone in the air after Marina Granovskaia accepted the last conditions set by Inter.”

An anecdote that reflects the pressure and complexity of major market negotiations.

A worldwide recognition

Finally, the agent recounts a personal moment of great pride: “When I was awarded as the best agent in the world in Dubai, in front of my family and my daughters, it was an immense joy. It's one of those moments that stay with you.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.