Naples – Romelu Lukaku’s availability for the final stretch of Serie A competition is in doubt after the Belgian international opted to continue training in Belgium rather than return to Napoli, deepening a tense situation with the club. The decision comes despite a request from Napoli for Lukaku to rejoin the team at Castel Volturno to improve his match fitness.
Lukaku left the Belgium national team camp, but has chosen to remain in Brussels with his mother and children, rebuffing Napoli’s call for him to resume training with the Serie A side this week. The situation, according to reports, has been brewing for weeks, stemming from Lukaku’s limited playing time since returning from a four-month injury layoff on January 25th. In 11 appearances since his return, Lukaku has featured for a total of just 64 minutes, primarily as a late substitute.
Napoli had issued a clear statement regarding Lukaku’s international duty, stating, “The striker will not participate in the upcoming friendly matches for the Belgian national team against the United States, and Mexico. He will return to Napoli to optimize his physical condition.” Evidently, that plan has not materialized.
Currently, manager Walter Mazzarri is on a short break, but the team continues to train under the guidance of assistant Stellini and the rest of the coaching staff, holding two sessions daily. The focus remains on preparing for a crucial period in the season where Napoli, despite a challenging campaign, still have an outside chance at competing for the Scudetto.
Lukaku’s physical condition has been a persistent concern since his return from an August injury. He has yet to regain his peak form, and Mazzarri has been hesitant to give him significant playing time. The striker has managed to score only one goal – a decisive one against Cagliari – in 281 days of action. Following that goal, Lukaku publicly expressed his “gratitude” to the club and Mazzarri for helping him return to a high level after his time at Chelsea.
Napoli is reportedly frustrated with Lukaku’s decision, particularly given the importance of the upcoming matches. The club’s position is further complicated by Lukaku’s personal circumstances; he recently lost his father, and has prioritized being with his family. This stand-off could have significant consequences in the coming weeks.
The situation is also complicated by the impending World Cup. Belgium has qualified, and is currently playing a series of friendlies in the United States. Lukaku’s participation in the tournament is not guaranteed due to his ongoing fitness concerns. His decision to leave the national team camp was reportedly agreed upon with national team coach Domenico Tedesco.
The tension between Lukaku and Napoli extends beyond playing time. Mazzarri has consistently viewed Lukaku as an indispensable player, but has been unable to provide him with the consistent minutes he desires due to his physical condition. This disconnect has contributed to the current impasse.
Napoli’s pursuit of the Serie A title remains a possibility, though a challenging one. The team currently sits in contention, and Lukaku’s potential contribution could be vital. Although, his current refusal to train with the team casts a shadow over those ambitions. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether a resolution can be reached and if Lukaku will be available to contribute to Napoli’s title push.
The next match for Napoli is against Atalanta on March 31st at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Naples. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT). The availability of Romelu Lukaku for this match remains uncertain.
