Lukaku injury blow as Napoli striker faces surgery and lengthy lay-off

The Belgian forward picked up the problem during a friendly against Olympiakos, and subsequent scans revealed a high-grade tear to the rectus femoris in his right leg.
The club confirmed on Monday that he has already begun rehabilitation but will also undergo a surgical consultation to assess whether an operation is necessary.
Should surgery be required, Lukaku's absence could stretch well into the autumn, depriving Napoli of their marquee striker for the opening months of the 2025/26 campaign.
His injury leaves the Serie A side short up front and is likely to push the club back into the transfer market in search of cover. Napoli had already been exploring options for another No.9, and Lukaku's setback is expected to accelerate those plans.