Lukaku on Belgium decision, Conte’s ‘difference’ and Serie A ‘coming back’ | OneFootball

Romelu Lukaku insists he could not play for Belgium as he needs to complete pre-season training with Napoli and notes that Serie A is ‘coming back.’

Lukaku snubbed a Belgium call-up for October games against Italy and France as he wanted to remain in Naples to continue training.

“I thought staying with my team and work was best for me,” the striker told TG1.

“Last season, I didn’t do any pre-season preparation, and I paid for it.”

Lukaku reunited with his ex-Inter coach Antonio Conte at the Stadio Maradona, completing a permanent transfer from Chelsea.

“It’s important. I think everyone knows my relationship with him,” Lukaku said.

Lukaku on Belgium decision, Conte’s ‘difference’ and Serie A ‘coming back’

“He knows my past and my family, which makes a big difference.”

A former striker for Manchester United, Everton and Chelsea in England, Lukaku has also played for Inter and Roma in Serie A.

“I played in the Premier League, but Serie A really is coming back,” he noted.

Napoli are the current Serie A leaders, but Lukaku urged his teammates to keep their feet on the ground.

“We must remain calm. It’s just the beginning,” he said.

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“I hope it has yet to come,” he concluded.

Lukaku has scored three goals and provided five assists in six appearances with Napoli so far this season.

He has signed a contract until June 2027 at the Stadio Maradona.