Napoli Threatens Romelu Lukaku Over Training Absence Before Milan Showdown

Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku was absent from Napoli's training session on Tuesday, prompting the Italian club to issue an official statement hinting at appropriate disciplinary action against the player.

These sanctions could include the striker's complete exclusion from the first team, at a time when doubts are growing about his ability to feature in the upcoming Serie A match against AC Milan next Monday, a direct battle for second place in the league table.

Lukaku justified his absence by citing medical reasons that required him to remain in Belgium, explaining that Belgian national team doctors discovered a muscular issue that had not been diagnosed by Napoli's medical staff.

The player stated, "Since it's the second problem I've faced since my return in early November, I chose to undergo rehabilitation in Belgium." He also affirmed his commitment to his current team, saying, "I can never turn my back on Napoli at all."

This tension arises after the player was forced to withdraw from his national team's camp and did not travel to the United States for friendly matches. He had previously suffered a thigh injury that kept him out of action during the first half of the season.

In this context, reports suggest that his teammate Kevin De Bruyne might intervene to try and de-escalate the situation between the player and the club management, given the current circumstances preceding the crucial league encounter.