Romelu Lukaku will be absent from Napoli’s opening Serie A title defence after sustaining a thigh injury that could sideline him for several months, the Italian champions confirmed on Monday.
The club, who face newly promoted Sassuolo on Saturday, announced that the Belgian forward suffered a “serious” tear in his left thigh during Thursday’s pre-season friendly against Olympiakos.
Although Napoli did not specify the length of his absence, Italian media reports suggest Lukaku may not return until November. The club also indicated that the 32-year-old might require surgery.
Lukaku played a pivotal role in Napoli’s fourth league triumph last season, scoring 14 goals and providing 10 assists under coach Antonio Conte.