Romelu Lukaku Withdraws from Belgium Camp, Returns to Naples for Injury Recovery

Romelu Lukaku will not participate in Belgium's upcoming international matches. The striker has decided to skip friendlies against Mexico and the United States, scheduled as World Cup preparations, to remain in Naples. His focus will be on regaining full fitness following a recent injury. Lukaku aims to use the final stretch of the championship season with his club (the "Azzurri," implying Napoli in the original text) to gradually increase his playing time and optimally prepare for the tournament in North America.

Belgium's Statement on Lukaku's Absence

The Belgian FA issued an official statement: "Romelu Lukaku will not take part in Belgium's upcoming friendlies in the United States against the USA and Mexico. Romelu has chosen to concentrate on training to further optimize his physical condition. The KBVB respects his decision and wishes him good luck." Lukaku was initially expected to be available for the friendly against the United States on March 28, followed by the match against Mexico on April 1. Romelu Lukaku's last appearance for the Belgian national team was in June last year, when he started and scored in a match against Wales during the World Cup qualifying group stage.

Lukaku's Current Condition

Despite his latest injury sidelining him for a considerable period, Lukaku remains a veteran and a key figure for the Belgium national team coach, who had called him up. After a significant injury sustained during pre-season training, Lukaku finally made his return to the pitch last January in a match against Juventus. Naturally, an athlete with his muscular build requires ample time for an effective recovery to prevent relapses. He has been managed carefully, not yet starting a game since his return but contributing a crucial decisive goal in a late win against Verona. However, he did not feature, even as a substitute, in the last two league matches against Lecce and Cagliari.