Napoli have released an official statement after Romelu Lukaku failed to report back to training following the international break.
Lukaku was meant to return to Italy after withdrawing from the Belgium squad last week due to fitness concerns. However, the former Chelsea forward has decided to undergo personal recovery away from the club’s medical staff.
His decision was reportedly not authorized by the club, and he might now face a disciplinary measure.
Napoli’s hierarchy did not mince words when addressing the 32-year-old’s insubordination. The board are now weighing up a heavy fine or a total exclusion from the first-team squad.
Romelu Lukaku in action during the serie Serie A Enilive match between SSC Napoli and Torino FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 6, 2026 in Naples, Italy (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
In an official statement, the club said: “SSC Napoli can confirm that Romelu Lukaku did not respond to today’s call to return to training. The club reserves the right to consider taking the appropriate disciplinary action, as well as to determine whether the player will continue to train with the team for an indefinite period.”
The situation has escalated beyond a mere sporting disagreement, with Napoli’s legal team now scrutinizing the striker’s contract.
According to Sky Sports, via Football Italia, Lawyers are evaluating whether the “indefinite” nature of Lukaku’s absence justifies more severe contractual penalties beyond a standard one-week fine.
Napoli may also be prepared to freeze the striker out entirely if a resolution is not reached within the next 48 hours.
While Lukaku is likely not to be available for the next game, Napoli are scheduled to host AC Milan on Monday in a match that could have a significant impact on the top of the Serie A table.
Partenopei currently sit third with 62 points from 30 matches, just one point behind second-placed Milan. Meanwhile, Inter are top with 69 points.
