The international break is here, giving players not selected for their national teams some time off.
While some stay close to training, others head home to visit family and recharge from their busy schedules.
However, a Napoli player is facing issues after failing to show up for training today after the break.
The Italian club is fighting to maintain its title after winning Serie A last season.
Currently, they are in third place, seven points behind leaders Inter Milan, with a chance to improve on Monday, April 4, 2026.
Their next match is against AC Milan, who are in second place just one point ahead, meaning a win could lift Napoli above them.
Yet, Antonio Conte’s training plans have been disrupted by the absence of Romelu Lukaku.
Napoli released a statement saying: “SSC Napoli can confirm that Romelu Lukaku did not respond to today’s call to return to training.”
The club added: “The club reserves the right to consider appropriate disciplinary action and to decide whether the player will train with the team indefinitely.”
This situation likely wasn’t unexpected for the club, as there were already hints about Lukaku planning to stay in Brussels.
Last week, it was reported that Lukaku intended to remain in Belgium with his mother and children, and the Belgium national team commented on it.
Belgium’s technical director, Vincent Mannaert, explained that Lukaku’s choice was influenced by the logistics of returning to training, which could negatively affect the rest of the season.
Looking ahead to potential World Cup selection in 2026, the former United striker aimed for a lighter pace during this break.
With Napoli now able to take action, it remains to be seen what consequences Lukaku will face for skipping training.