Nominated alongside the 24-year-old were Argentina’s World Cup hero and Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi and Manchester City’s free-scoring striker, Erling Haaland.
But coach Pep Guardiola’s satisfaction at a solid start was tempered by the injury to his Belgian playmaker.
Inter pressed fiercely to contain Pep Guardiola’s team in their first competitive match against the Citizens and on the greatest platform possible.
Manchester City marched into the Champions League final for the second time in three seasons after outclassing holders Real Madrid 4-0 for a 5-1 aggregate victory.
That effectively knocked the stuffing out of the Gunners, allowing the hosts to cruise through large spells of the second half.
Haaland watched the encounter from the stand after being sidelined by an injury prior to the last international break.
The striker showed no signs of split loyalties as his brace guided Manchester City to a 3-1 win at Elland Road.
Lukaku is struggling with a hamstring injury, having only recently returned from two months on the sidelines.
Manchester City defeated Super Eagles defender Joe Aribo and his Saints side 4-0 to move top of the league table
The winner will be announced during the 2022-23 Champions League group stage draw ceremony in Istanbul on August 25.
