Romelu Lukaku faces disciplinary action from Napoli after missing training

On March 31, 2026, Napoli announced that forward Romelu Lukaku failed to report for scheduled team training. The club had issued an ultimatum requiring the Belgian player to return to Italy by Tuesday, but he did not comply. Lukaku reportedly remained in Belgium, citing a preference to continue his rehabilitation process there until he reaches full fitness. The club released an official statement confirming his absence and indicated they are currently evaluating potential disciplinary measures, including the possibility of excluding him from the squad or suspending his participation indefinitely. Italian media reports suggest that this standoff places the striker's career at the club in jeopardy, particularly with the World Cup approaching in less than three months. While the club views the absence as an unauthorized breach of protocol, the player maintains that his decision was based on his recovery needs.