Lukaku Expresses Frustration with Napoli’s Medical Team
Romelu Lukaku remains in Belgium amid a growing clash with Napoli over his rehabilitation. The club has warned it may freeze him out after he chose not to return immediately to Naples.
Recent developments
Napoli officials say Lukaku was instructed to return but stayed after national-team staff deemed him not fully fit. The striker issued a social media statement, but the stand-off continued.
Filmogaz.com reports Lukaku rushed a comeback in November. The outlet says he disregarded advice from his Antwerp medical team and suffered a relapse.
Key dates and incidents
- August 14, 2025 — Lukaku suffered an injury during a pre-season friendly in Castel di Sangro.
- November 2025 — Club injury crisis prompted an earlier-than-advised return, according to reports.
- August 30, 2025 — Kevin De Bruyne featured in a Serie A match for Napoli.
- February 10, 2026 — Lukaku missed a penalty in the Coppa Italia shootout against Como in Naples.
Disagreement over medical care
Both Lukaku and fellow Belgian Kevin De Bruyne have questioned parts of Napoli’s medical approach. They prefer working with physiotherapists Lieven Maesschalck and Bert Driesen.
Lukaku has voiced frustration over the Naples club’s medical team and wants to remain under the supervision he trusts. He plans to stay in Belgium until at least the end of the week.
De Bruyne’s view
De Bruyne said their recovery paths diverged. He completed rehabilitation in Belgium, while Lukaku split time between Antwerp and Napoli.
He added that conflicting medical opinions complicate rehabilitation. That makes it harder for injured players to return to peak condition.
Club impact and next steps
Napoli’s medical department has faced scrutiny this season. A series of setbacks contributed to a severely depleted squad under Antonio Conte.
The club has threatened disciplinary measures if Lukaku misses the return deadline. How Napoli will respond remains unclear.
