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Sports
May 15, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Belgium Risks Lukaku’s Fitness in World Cup 2026 Squad

AI Summary
Belgium’s coach Rudi Garcia has named striker Romelu Lukaku in the 2026 World Cup squad despite the striker having played only an hour of competitive football this season. The decision highlights the reliance on Lukaku’s historic goal‑scoring record and raises questions about Belgium’s tactical options heading into Group G.

Belgium announced a 26‑man squad for the 2026 World Cup, controversially including striker Romelu Lukaku despite his injury‑plagued season, where he logged just an hour of competitive play.

Lukaku’s Limited Season and Squad Inclusion

At 33 years old, Lukaku has not started a match for Napoli this campaign, making only seven substitute appearances and scoring once against Verona in February. He has spent the past two months in Belgium recovering from a hamstring injury, yet coach Rudi Garcia retained him for the tournament.

Numbers Behind Lukaku’s 2025‑26 Campaign

  • Competitive minutes this season: ≈60 (one hour)
  • Substitute appearances: 7
  • Goals scored: 1
  • International caps: 124, goals: 89

Strategic Implications for Belgium’s World Cup Prospects

The decision reflects Belgium’s reliance on Lukaku’s status as the nation’s all‑time leading scorer. With Thibaut Courtois returning to fitness and a mix of younger forwards like Matias Fernandez‑Pardo, the squad balances experience and potential, but the gamble on Lukaku’s fitness could affect attacking fluidity in Group G (Egypt, Iran, New Zealand).

What Lukaku’s Fitness Could Mean for Belgium in 2026

If Lukaku regains full fitness, he could provide a focal point for Belgium’s attack, easing pressure on midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne. Conversely, limited minutes may force Garcia to rely on alternative forwards, potentially reshaping the team’s tactical setup.