Romelu Lukaku has addressed his recent absence from Napoli training during the international break, revealing that he hasn’t been at full capacity for most of the 2025-26 season and that his struggles have “taken a toll mentally.”
Italian media reported last week that Napoli was reportedly upset when Lukaku opted to remain in Belgium for individual training during the international period, allegedly without the club’s consent.
The season has been challenging for Belgium’s record goalscorer. By April, Lukaku will have made just seven club appearances, totaling only 64 minutes on the field. An injury sustained during Napoli’s last pre-season friendly kept him out until January. Since his return, ‘Big Rom’ has struggled to regain full fitness and has found it difficult to displace Rasmus Hojlund in the team’s hierarchy.
Lukaku’s Explanation for Missing Napoli Training
Lukaku, still in Belgium and anticipated to remain there for the duration of the international break, later provided his explanation via an Instagram story.
In his post, Lukaku stated: “This season has been incredibly demanding for me, dealing with both injury and personal loss. I know there’s been a lot of speculation about my situation recently, and it’s important to clarify everything.”
He continued, “The truth is, for the past few weeks, I haven’t felt physically right. I had it checked in Belgium, and it revealed inflammation and fluid on my hip flexor muscle next to my scar tissue – this is the second issue I’ve had since returning in early November.”
Lukaku added, “I chose to undergo rehabilitation in Belgium so I can be ready to help my team when needed. I believe most of you saw my interview in Verona. There’s nothing I want more than to play and win for my team. However, right now, I must ensure I am clinically 100%, as I haven’t been recently, and it has taken a mental toll. It’s been a tough year, but ultimately, I will get there and help Napoli and the national team achieve their objectives when called upon. That’s all I desire.”
