Key Takeaways:
- Romelu Lukaku has opted to continue his recovery in Belgium and has not reported to Napoli training as expected this morning
- Napoli are reportedly angered by Lukaku’s unauthorised absence and are considering disciplinary measures
- The Belgian striker has played only 64 minutes in seven appearances this season due to a high-degree muscle injury sustained in August
Lukaku Extends Stay in Belgium Amid Club Frustration
Multiple Italian media outlets have reported growing dissatisfaction within Napoli, as Romelu Lukaku has chosen to remain in Belgium, bypassing the club’s expectations for his return to training in Naples. The striker, 32, was scheduled to rejoin the squad this morning and train under the guidance of Antonio Conte’s assistant, Cristian Stellini, with Conte currently away and set to return in the coming days.
Lukaku instead opted to stay in Antwerp, where he is undertaking recovery sessions at a clinic previously used by compatriot and team-mate, Kevin De Bruyne. This decision was made without the club’s consent, sparking discussions of possible disciplinary proceedings from the Napoli hierarchy.
Multiple sources in Italy claim that irritated Napoli could take disciplinary measures against Romelu Lukaku, who has decided to train in Belgium until next week without the club's consent. pic.twitter.com/YmnqKNTmaF
— Football Italia (@footballitalia) March 26, 2026
Napoli’s Training Expectations and Injury Record
Lukaku had informed Belgium national team coach Rudi Garcia that he was not sufficiently fit to appear in recent international friendlies against Mexico and the United States, expressing the need for further time to reach full fitness.
Suffering a significant muscle injury during pre-season in August, Lukaku’s contribution on the pitch has been limited to a single goal from 64 minutes of play across seven appearances so far this season. His planned return to training with Napoli has now been delayed, with Lukaku’s intention to stay in Belgium until the following week.
Potential Disciplinary Measures
Sources in Italy indicate that Napoli may pursue disciplinary action against Lukaku, citing irritation within the club at his decision to remain abroad without formal approval. Whether this move will impact Lukaku’s standing with the team will likely become clearer when he eventually reports back for training in Naples.
