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Lukaku Admits Fitness Struggles: 'Took a Toll Mentally'
30 Mar
Summary
- Lukaku has struggled with fitness since a pre-season injury.
- He cited hip flexor inflammation and personal loss for his issues.
- The striker aims to be 100% to help Napoli and Belgium.

Romelu Lukaku has explained his decision to train away from Napoli during the recent international break, disclosing that he has been battling physical and mental challenges throughout the 2025-26 season. The Belgian striker sustained an injury during Napoli's final pre-season friendly last August, which sidelined him until January.
Since his return, Lukaku has faced difficulties regaining full match fitness and has been unable to secure a regular starting position. He revealed on Instagram that recent medical checks in Belgium identified inflammation and fluid in his hip flexor near scar tissue, stemming from a previous issue. This ongoing physical discomfort has also impacted him mentally.
Lukaku expressed his strong desire to play and win for Napoli but stressed the necessity of achieving 100% clinical fitness before returning. He is committed to completing his rehabilitation in Belgium and aims to contribute to both his club and country once fully recovered, stating, 'I will get there and help Napoli and national team to their respective objectives when called upon.'