Napoli are weighing disciplinary measures against Romelu Lukaku after the striker failed to report for training despite withdrawing from international duty due to injury concerns. The situation has created uncertainty around the player’s immediate future at the club, with officials confirming he did not respond to a request to return to the training ground. The development comes at a crucial stage of the season, with Napoli competing near the top of Serie A and relying on experienced players to maintain consistency in their title push.
The club issued a firm response, stating that Lukaku’s absence had been noted and that all options remain under consideration. Napoli indicated they would assess whether disciplinary action is appropriate and also determine the striker’s training status in the coming days. The issue has raised concerns internally, particularly given the importance of squad discipline and cohesion during a competitive phase of the campaign. Lukaku’s absence from club facilities has also fueled speculation in Italian media regarding potential disagreements over his rehabilitation approach.
Lukaku had withdrawn from Belgium’s international fixtures in the United States, where matches against the U.S. and Mexico were scheduled as part of World Cup preparations. The forward chose to remain in Belgium to focus on recovery, a decision that appears to have created tension with Napoli. Reports suggest the club expected him to return for supervised rehabilitation, but his failure to do so has led to questions about communication and coordination between player and club medical staff during a sensitive recovery period.
Responding to the controversy, Lukaku defended his decision to continue treatment in Belgium, citing ongoing physical issues that have disrupted his season. He explained that recent medical checks revealed inflammation and fluid near his hip flexor, close to previously affected scar tissue. The striker emphasized that this is his second injury setback since returning earlier in the season and insisted that his priority is achieving full fitness before resuming competitive action. He also reiterated his commitment to Napoli, stating that he remains eager to contribute once fully recovered.
The situation is further complicated by Lukaku’s difficult campaign, which has been heavily impacted by injuries. After playing a key role in Napoli’s title winning season with 14 goals, he has struggled to maintain form and fitness this year. A hamstring injury kept him sidelined for an extended period, and since returning in January he has managed limited appearances, scoring only once in the league. The lack of continuity has affected both his individual rhythm and Napoli’s attacking stability during key matches.
Napoli remain firmly in contention near the top of the table, currently sitting third and chasing leaders Inter Milan. With crucial fixtures approaching, including a high profile clash against AC Milan, the team’s focus is on maintaining pressure in the title race. Lukaku’s availability could prove decisive, making the resolution of this situation particularly important for the club’s ambitions in the closing stages of the season.
The broader context reflects the challenges clubs face in managing player fitness alongside international commitments. Disputes over rehabilitation locations and medical supervision are not uncommon, especially when players prioritize personal recovery strategies. Napoli will now need to balance disciplinary considerations with the long term objective of ensuring Lukaku returns to peak condition, as they navigate a critical period that could define their season.
