Lukaku Will Not Accept Reserve Role at Napoli, Says Player's Agent
July 26, 2026 ·
Romelu Lukaku confirmed his desire to remain a key player at Napoli and will not accept a reserve role ahead of the final year of his contract.
Lukaku Will Not Accept Reserve Role at Napoli, Says Player's Agent
According to Soccernews.
Background
Romelu Lukaku, who joined Napoli in the 2024-25 season, has shown impressive form in Serie A with a significant contribution in scoring goals. However, injuries that disrupted his form last season raised concerns about his ability to maintain his position as the main striker. With the agent confirming Lukaku's desire to remain first choice, this situation could affect Napoli's team dynamics and strategy in the league.
Why this is important
Romelu Lukaku's decision not to accept a reserve role at Napoli shows his ambition and desire to remain a key player in Serie A. With a record of 14 goals and 10 assists in his debut season, Lukaku has proven his ability to contribute greatly to the team's success, including winning the Scudetto. However, the injuries he suffered last season raised questions about his consistency and how this could affect the team's performance in Serie A.
Main Points
- Lukaku Will Not Accept Reserve Role at Napoli, Says Player's Agent.
- Romelu Lukaku confirmed his desire to remain a key player at Napoli and will not accept a reserve role ahead of the final year of his contract.
- Lukaku will not accept back-up role at Napoli, says striker's agent.
Romelu Lukaku, the Napoli striker, faces uncertainty regarding his future at the club after the agent representing him, Federico Pastorello, stated that Lukaku would not accept a role as a reserve player in the 2026-27 season. Lukaku, who joined Napoli at the start of the 2024-25 season, has shown impressive form by scoring 14 goals and providing 10 assists, helping the team to the Scudetto in his debut season.
However, last season was a big challenge for Lukaku. He only appeared in seven matches in all competitions, with a total playing time of only 64 minutes. A thigh injury suffered during pre-season meant he was sidelined until the end of the season after also experiencing a hip problem. Despite this, Lukaku managed to recover and appear at the World Cup with the Belgian national team.
Now, with his contract entering its final year, Lukaku's future at Napoli is a question mark. Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manni said they would discuss Lukaku's future following the player's return for pre-season. However, Pastorello emphasized that Lukaku does not want to act as a second option in the team. "He [Lukaku] is an extraordinary player and has proven it. He is one of the most productive strikers in the world. It is difficult for us to accept a situation like that," Pastorello told Sky Sport Italia when asked about the possibility of Lukaku being second choice.
"Of course, there may be a starting order in the team, but in the end, it is what happens on the pitch that is decisive. Behind Manni's comments, there may also be financial considerations, considering there are two top-class strikers. Even proposing a contract extension comes with additional costs. It's not just about wages. Romelu has earned this level of contract because of everything he has achieved throughout his career. He is not the type of person to stay where he is not wanted," he added.
In the last four seasons, Lukaku has directly contributed to the fourth most goals in Serie A with a total of 57 goals, while his shot conversion rate stands at 20.9%, which is the second best among players who scored more than 30 goals during that period (38 goals from 182 shots). After spending time at Inter and Roma on loan, Lukaku finally made a permanent transfer to Napoli from Chelsea. With all the achievements he has achieved, Lukaku is determined to remain a key player at Napoli.
What happened next
With his contract entering the final year, Lukaku's future at Napoli will be a major focus when he returns to pre-season. Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manni is expected to discuss the situation further, and a decision regarding Lukaku's role in the team will impact the club's strategy for the upcoming season. If Lukaku remains adamant about not being a reserve, Napoli may need to consider other options to ensure their squad depth in Serie A.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals has Romelu Lukaku scored for Napoli?
Romelu Lukaku has scored 14 goals for Napoli.
What impact will Lukaku's performance have on Napoli's position in the standings?
Lukaku helped Napoli win the Scudetto in his debut season.
When will Romelu Lukaku join Napoli?
Romelu Lukaku joins Napoli at the start of the 2024-25 season.
What did Lukaku's agent say about his role at Napoli?
Lukaku's agent, Federico Pastorello, stated that Lukaku would not accept a role as a reserve player.
What will Napoli's sporting director discuss Lukaku?
Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manni said they would discuss Lukaku's future following the player's return for pre-season.