Lukaku's agent rules out backup role at Napoli, signals potential exit
Quick summary
Romelu Lukaku's agent publicly stated the striker will not accept a backup role at Napoli and will not remain 'where he is not wanted', signaling a possible summer departure.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceRomelu Lukaku’s agent Federico Pastorello says the Belgian striker cannot be a back-up at Napoli: ‘He isn’t the kind of person who stays where he’s not wanted.’
Pastorello spoke to Sky Sport Italia on Friday night, discussing his client’s situation at Napoli.
Lukaku is about to begin his third season at the Stadio Maradona, but has less than a year left in his contract.
He only played 64 minutes of football at a club level in 2025-26, mostly due to a serious muscle injury he suffered during the pre-season.
Pastorello: Lukaku doesn’t stay where he’s not wanted Asked whether Lukaku would accept being a Napoli reserve in 2026-27, Pastorello replied: “Obviously not. He’s an extraordinary player, and he’s proved it. He’s one of the most prolific strikers in the world. It’s hard for us to accept a situation like that.
“Obviously there might be an initial pecking order, but ultimately it’s what happens on the pitch that decides.
“Behind Manna’s comments, there could also be financial considerations, given that there are two top-class strikers.”
Manna spoke about Lukaku’s future earlier this week, admitting that he’d need to sit down with the striker to discuss the next steps once the Belgian returns from holiday.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images) “Lucca will be coming back as well,” continued Pastorello.
“That creates a bit of a stalemate. Right now, the transfer market is completely at a standstill, and the market for strikers hasn’t really started yet. That will have a domino effect.”
Lukaku infuriated Napoli in March when he remained in Belgium to train individually without the club’s consent.
Given that his contract expires in 2027, would Lukaku accept a pay cut in exchange for a longer deal?
“Even proposing a contract extension comes with additional costs. It’s not just about the wages. Romelu has earned this level of contract because of everything he’s accomplished throughout his career,” Pastorello replied.
“Perhaps the time hasn’t come yet to spread his salary over a longer period. Last season wasn’t entirely his fault. If he had been allowed to stay and train where he wanted, he might have returned sooner and played a leading role at the World Cup, which, in the end, he did anyway. Romelu isn’t the kind of person who stays where he’s not wanted. A club strategy can be perfectly legitimate.”
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What happened
Romelu Lukaku's representative has broken the silence on the Belgian striker's situation at Napoli, making it clear that his client expects to be a starter and will not accept a substitute role. The agent's comments — that Lukaku 'won't stay where he's not wanted' — strongly suggest the forward is eyeing an exit from the Stadio Maradona. Lukaku joined Napoli on loan from Chelsea (with an obligation to buy from Rangers) and has had an inconsistent campaign. The remarks are likely aimed at pressuring the club into clarifying his status or facilitating a transfer, with several clubs reportedly monitoring the situation.
Chance analysis
This is a significant availability and morale story. Lukaku's agent publicly questioning his role at Napoli suggests a breakdown in communication between player and club, increasing the probability of a summer departure. For Napoli, losing a focal point of their attack — even an inconsistent one — would force a striker market move. For clubs monitoring him, this is an early signal that a deal could be available. Prediction systems should factor in reduced commitment and possible rotation from Lukaku in the short term, and potential roster reshaping for Napoli.
Lukaku's Napoli future is in serious doubt; his motivation and playing time may be affected, and Napoli face a likely striker market search.
Lukaku's status at Napoli is now openly uncertain — expect potential rotation, reduced output, and active summer transfer market involvement.