Napoli made a huge splash in signing Romelu Lukaku in the summer, and the forward has now made a significant decision regarding his international career with Belgium.
The Belgian forward has informed the Belgian Football Federation that he will not participate in any more international fixtures for the remainder of 2024.
This decision comes as Lukaku focuses on regaining full match fitness with Napoli; following a summer of uncertainty and a delayed transfer from Chelsea.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Lukaku has officially communicated his decision to Belgium’s national team management.
The striker missed the entire preseason due to his extended transfer saga with Chelsea. Thus, he is still working his way back to peak fitness. As such, he feels that his focus should remain solely on his new club until he can return to full strength.
With the veteran has reportedly told the Belgian Federation that he won’t play for the national team until the new year; meaning he will sit out the Red Devils’ upcoming Nations League fixtures against Italy and France.
Napoli signed Lukaku on a permanent transfer this past summer, a move that ended months of speculation and uncertainty. The striker, frozen out at Chelsea during preseason, was keen to resolve his club situation before resuming full fitness training.
Since joining Napoli, he has managed to score three goals in six appearances across all competitions; along with providing five assists. His performances have shown glimpses of his potential; however, he remains focused on fully adapting to his new team.
Belgium without Lukaku and De Bruyne
Belgium’s head coach Domenico Tedesco has had to adjust for the upcoming Nations League matches; as Lukaku’s absence is not the only blow to the squad.
Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne has also requested to sit out the current international window; especially as he recovers from injury. De Bruyne sustained a muscle injury during…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/happy-napoli-lukaku-makes-huge-decision-on-belgium-future/
Author : Martina Alcheva
Publish date : 2024-10-05 17:21:14
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.