Romelu Lukaku is facing a potential fallout with Napoli after missing training for a second consecutive day, with the club reportedly ready to drop him if he fails to return promptly.
The striker has not reported to the club’s Castelvolturno training base ahead of a key fixture, escalating tensions between player and management.
Reports indicate Lukaku has been issued an ultimatum to return by Tuesday or risk exclusion from the squad.
Absence deepens club tension
Lukaku’s decision to remain away from the squad is understood to be linked to ongoing recovery work following a difficult season disrupted by injury.
The Belgian forward sustained a serious setback early in the campaign, limiting his impact despite recently rejoining the squad under Antonio Conte.
However, the situation has been complicated by a breakdown in communication, with Napoli expecting the striker to train alongside players not involved in international duty.
Instead, Lukaku returned to Belgium to continue rehabilitation with a personal trainer without formal clearance from the club.
The development has intensified scrutiny around his future, particularly given his limited contribution this season.
De Bruyne weighs in
Amid the growing controversy, Kevin De Bruyne has publicly addressed the situation, calling for calm while acknowledging the wider impact.
“There’s always a lot of fuss around Napoli. Situations like this are blown out of proportion there,” De Bruyne said.
“I don’t know all the details of what happened between the two parties. But Romelu’s year hasn’t been easy. He’s had several problems, including that injury. This situation isn’t good for anyone, not even for Belgium, because we need him.”
Uncertain outlook
Lukaku’s absence has also seen him left out of the Belgium squad by national team coach Rudi Garcia for upcoming friendlies.