Napoli and striker Romelu Lukaku have settled a recent training dispute after what were termed “friendly and constructive conversations” in Naples.
According to BBC Sport, the 32-year-old Belgian international was facing disciplinary punishment after the club claimed he did not react to a request to return to Italy for training during his injury recuperation.
Instead, Lukaku remained in Belgium to recover from a hamstring injury that had disrupted much of his season.
However, the attacker has returned to Naples in recent days to speak with club officials, including sporting director Giovanni Manna and agent Federico Pastorello.
A source close to the discussions said: “The meeting was calm, collaborative, and constructive. Both sides were able to clarify their positions, and there is now a mutual understanding. The situation has been resolved amicably.”
Lukaku has made only seven appearances this season owing to injury, his last coming as a substitute in Napoli’s 2-1 victory against Torino on March 6.
During the meetings, the striker gave an update on his recovery, and Napoli claimed they were pleased with his progress.
“Romelu explained his rehabilitation plan and current condition,” another source said. “The club is comfortable with where things stand and is hopeful he can return to selection within the next couple of weeks.”
The agreement puts an end to a potentially troublesome scenario for Napoli as they continue their season, with Lukaku scheduled to finish his recovery in Belgium before rejoining the squad ahead of a possible return to action later this month.
