Romelu Lukaku has been controversially named in Belgium's 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar, despite enduring a season severely hampered by injury. The Chelsea striker, currently on loan at Inter Milan, has managed to play a mere 60 minutes of competitive football this campaign, a decision that has raised eyebrows among football pundits and fans alike.
Lukaku's limited game time stems from a series of hamstring and thigh injuries that have kept him sidelined for the majority of the season. His only appearances have been brief cameos for Inter Milan, leaving significant doubt over his match fitness and ability to perform at the highest level of international football.
Belgium manager Roberto Martinez, however, has publicly defended his decision, emphasising Lukaku's unique qualities and importance to the squad. Martinez stated that the medical team has confirmed Lukaku's recovery is on track, and that they are prepared to give him every chance to be fit for the tournament. The manager highlighted Lukaku's significant goal-scoring record for the national team, where he is Belgium's all-time leading scorer with 68 goals in 102 appearances.
The inclusion of Lukaku, who joined Chelsea in a club-record deal worth approximately £97.5 million in August 2021 before returning to Inter Milan on loan, underscores the faith Martinez places in his star forward. Belgium, currently ranked second in the world, will be hoping that Lukaku can regain his form and fitness quickly as they aim to improve on their third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup.
This selection presents a gamble for Belgium, as they head into a challenging Group F alongside Canada, Morocco, and Croatia. The fitness of key players will be paramount, and the pressure will be on Lukaku to prove his worth despite his minimal preparation. Concerns remain about how his lack of recent competitive action might impact his sharpness and endurance in a demanding tournament environment.