Belgium, Rudi Garcia on Lukaku: “At his age, he was right to avoid surgery” | OneFootball

We are at the first international break, less than a month since the start of all European championships. Among the notable absentees for Belgium is Romelu Lukaku, Napoli's striker who is out for the next four months. Rudi Garcia, coach of the Red Devils, spoke at a press conference, also addressing the topic of Lukaku, the top scorer in the history of the Belgian National team.

Rudi Garcia: “His absence will not change our game”

Less than a month since the start of the championships, and two days after the end of the transfer market, the first international break of the 2025/2026 season returns. Many Napoli players have joined their respective national teams, and among them, the Azzurri's striker, Romelu Lukaku, is obviously missing. The class of '93 suffered a severe injury during the last pre-season friendly against Olympiakos. The decision was made not to undergo surgery, resulting in a 4-month break. Napoli quickly returned to the market, securing Hojlund, another former United player, to allow Lucca to further develop and integrate into Conte's system. Not only will Napoli be without Lukaku, but so will Belgium, where he holds the record for most goals scored. Rudi Garcia, former Napoli coach and current manager of the Red Devils, spoke about his absence at the press conference:

“Lukaku was positive when I spoke to him. We want him back as soon as possible. He has a fighting spirit. Surgery? His decision was the right one. He is at an age where surgery could mean a longer absence. Totti had the same experience at Roma. Meanwhile, we will try to qualify for the World Cup even without him. His absence will not change our game much.”

Francesco Landi

If you want to know more about Napoli, stay updated with www.gonfialarete.com

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.