Accused of not wanting to play for Napoli anymore, Romelu Lukaku spoke up: “This is what I chose”
Article by Alexandru Tomuțiu – Published Monday, March 30, 2026 10:19 p.m. / Updated Monday, March 30, 2026 10:20 p.m.
After days of intense speculation and rumors regarding Romelu Lukaku's (32-year-old) absence from Napoli, the Belgian striker has spoken out to clarify his situation.
Through a post on his personal Instagram account, he explained the reasons that led him to extend his stay in Belgium, stressing that he would never turn his back on the club he plays for.
Specifically, Lukaku revealed that he was not feeling well and underwent medical investigations in Belgium with doctors and personal trainers, which indicated inflammation in the hip flexor. This was the reason why he decided to follow the recovery in his native country, instead of Naples, in order to be one hundred percent prepared.
He was an unused substitute in Napoli's last two games against Cagliari and Lecce.
Romelu Lukaku: “I want to help Napoli, but also the national team”
“This season has been very difficult for me, I have been through an injury and the loss of my father. I know there has been a lot of talk about my situation in the last few days and it is important to clarify everything. The truth is that in the last few weeks I have not felt well physically and I had some checks while I was in Belgium. It turned out that I have inflammation and fluid in the hip flexor, close to the scar tissue.
Considering it's the second problem I've had since my return at the beginning of November, I've chosen to do the recovery in Belgium so I can help the team when I'm called upon.
I think many of you have seen the interview I gave in Verona. I could never turn my back on Napoli, never. There's nothing I want more than to play and win with my team… but at the moment I have to make sure I'm 100% fit because I haven't been recently and that has had a psychological impact as well.
It has been a difficult year, but in the end, I will overcome it and help Napoli and the national team achieve their goals when called upon. That's all I want,” wrote the Belgian.
