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The Napoli striker is hoping to rediscover his form so he can make a triumphant return to The Red Devils soon
Romelu Lukaku has opened up about his emotional struggles after Belgium’s disappointing exit from the 2022 World Cup and hinted at a potential return to the Belgian national team.
Speaking on the Belgian podcast Friends of Sports, the Napoli striker shared his deep desire to rediscover his passion for the national team, reflecting on his journey so far.
Lukaku recalls emotional World Cup exit and national team disappointment
The former Manchester United and Chelsea striker, who endured harsh criticism after missing key opportunities in Belgium’s early exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, revealed just how much the experience affected him emotionally.
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“It was the first time in 29 years that football touched me,” he admitted, adding, “I never thought about depression, but I cried every day for weeks, even on holiday.
“Henry called me three times a day. My mother and kids were in Milan, but I had no energy. I needed to be alone for a while.”
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Unfortunately, Lukaku’s next major outing with the national team at the 2024 Euros was not much better as he failed to find the back of the net as Belgium crashed out in the second round.
Lukaku hoping for positive national team impact
Following the disappointment at the Euros, Lukaku has taken a back seat from the Belgian national team, and withdrew from the latest Red Devils squad for the UEFA Nations League.
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The Napoli striker stated that he hoped to regain his love for the national team to help them prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
“I hope I can rediscover my passion for the Red Devils. The next step is the World Cup in two years, which feels so far away now,” Lukaku said, adding, “I really want to return to the national team with a good feeling and take on a leadership role, but you can’t expect me to be happy if we don’t win.
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“It’s the only thing that this young group of players lack. They’ve come a long way already but can still do much more regarding a winning mentality. This is what I can teach them.”
As he continues to rediscover his form with Napoli, Lukaku will be hoping he can translate the quality he is showing at club level to the national team soon.
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