Belgian international Romelu Lukaku, having been called up for pre-World Cup friendly matches, opted to withdraw from the national squad to focus on his physical conditioning. The 32-year-old striker has seen limited playing time at Napoli this season (just 48 minutes across six matches, with one goal scored) due to recurring injuries. He aims to prioritize his chances of participating in the upcoming World Cup and further extend his record as Belgium’s all-time leading scorer.
However, Lukaku’s actions have also put him at odds with his club. Napoli announced today that they are considering disciplinary measures against the striker after he failed to report for training, instead choosing to remain in Belgium to continue his physical recovery.
In an official statement, the Italian club declared, “Napoli announces that Romelu Lukaku did not respond to today’s call for the resumption of training. The club reserves the right to decide to take appropriate disciplinary measures, as well as to keep the player in the squad permanently.”
Lukaku later addressed the situation on social media, asserting that he would “never turn his back on Napoli.” However, he stressed the critical need to be “100% clinically fit,” admitting that his recent struggles with fitness have taken a mental toll.
He concluded by expressing confidence, stating, “Ultimately, I will get there and help Napoli and the national team achieve their respective goals when I am needed.”