Romelu Lukaku addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to receive treatment in Belgium rather than at Napoli after withdrawing from Belgium’s World Cup warm-up matches in the United States. The 32-year-old striker, who has struggled with injuries this season, emphasized that his primary focus remains on achieving success with both Napoli and the national team.
In an Instagram post, Lukaku revealed the challenges he has faced this season, including dealing with an injury and the personal loss of his father. He clarified the recent speculation about his condition, explaining that he had been experiencing physical discomfort and underwent medical examinations in Belgium, which revealed inflammation and fluid accumulation in his hip flexor muscle.
Following a season disrupted by injury, Lukaku pulled out last Tuesday from Belgium’s warm-up friendlies, missing the 5–2 victory over co-hosts the United States and the upcoming match against Mexico. He stated that he chose to continue his rehabilitation in Belgium but firmly rejected any suggestion that he had abandoned Napoli. “I could never turn my back on Napoli, never,” he asserted.
Lukaku expressed his strong desire to play and win for Napoli, but stressed the importance of being fully fit before returning to action. He acknowledged the mental toll the injury has taken, noting that he has not been at 100 percent physically in recent weeks.
As Belgium’s all-time leading scorer, Lukaku reflected on the difficulties he has faced this year but reiterated his commitment to helping both Napoli and the national team reach their goals. After sustaining a thigh injury during pre-season, he only returned to competitive play in January and has appeared in just seven matches across all competitions this season. Meanwhile, Napoli have struggled in their title defense and currently trail Serie A leaders Inter Milan by seven points.
