Romelu Lukaku has publicly addressed his recent absence from Napoli training during the international break, admitting that he hasn’t been operating at full capacity for much of the 2025-26 season. He stated that the challenges have ‘taken a toll mentally’.
Reports emerged from Italy last week indicating that Napoli officials were displeased with Lukaku’s decision to remain in Belgium for individual training without the club’s express permission. This comes amid what has been a challenging season for Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer, who has made only seven appearances, accumulating just 64 minutes of club action, as April approaches.
Lukaku sustained an injury during Napoli’s final pre-season friendly, sidelining him until January. Since his return, the forward, often dubbed ‘Big Rom’, has struggled to regain peak fitness and has found himself behind Rasmus Hojlund in the team’s attacking hierarchy.
Lukaku Explains His Absence from Napoli Training
Still in Belgium and expected to remain there for the duration of the international break, Lukaku shared his reasons via a statement on his Instagram story.
“This season has presented many difficulties for me, from managing injuries to experiencing personal loss. I’m aware of the considerable speculation surrounding my situation recently, and it’s crucial to clarify everything,” his statement began.
He further elaborated: “The truth is, over the past few weeks, I haven’t felt physically right. I sought medical attention while in Belgium, which revealed inflammation and fluid in my hip flexor muscle, near an old scar tissue. This marks the second such issue I’ve encountered since returning in early November.”
Lukaku explained his choice: “I opted to undergo rehabilitation in Belgium to ensure I can contribute effectively when called upon. As many may recall from my interview in Verona, there’s nothing I desire more than to play and help my team win. However, at this moment, I must prioritize getting myself back to 100% clinically, as I haven’t been recently, and this situation has significantly impacted me mentally.”
He concluded: “It’s been a very demanding year. Yet, I am confident I will overcome these obstacles and fulfill my role in helping both Napoli and the national team achieve their objectives when needed. That is my sole focus.”