Romelu Lukaku has been included in Belgium’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite concerns surrounding his fitness and lack of competitive action in recent months, as the Red Devils prepare for what could be the final major international tournament for several members of their golden generation.
Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia announced the squad on Friday and confirmed that Lukaku remains part of the country’s plans despite admitting the striker is not yet at peak physical condition ahead of the tournament.
The inclusion of the experienced forward has generated widespread debate among football supporters and analysts, especially after an injury disrupted much of his season at Napoli.
Lukaku has struggled for regular playing time in recent months after recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for a lengthy period. Reports indicate the Belgian international has made only limited substitute appearances since returning to action and is still working toward full match fitness.
Despite the concerns, Garcia insisted the striker’s experience, leadership qualities, and remarkable international scoring record made him impossible to overlook ahead of football’s biggest competition.
Speaking during the official squad unveiling, Garcia explained that Lukaku may not yet be fully sharp physically, but his presence within the dressing room and his proven ability in major tournaments remain extremely important for the national team.
The Belgian coach revealed that the technical staff will carefully manage Lukaku’s workload during the team’s preparation period before the World Cup begins. According to Garcia, the coming weeks will provide enough time for the striker to improve his condition and regain rhythm before Belgium’s opening match.
Lukaku remains Belgium’s all time leading goalscorer and one of the most accomplished players in the country’s football history. Since making his senior debut as a teenager, the powerful striker has consistently delivered goals for the national team across multiple tournaments and qualification campaigns.
The 33 year old forward currently boasts an impressive international record, having scored 89 goals in 124 appearances for Belgium. His goal scoring achievements place him among the highest scoring international players in modern football history.
Lukaku has also enjoyed a remarkable FIFA World Cup career. He played a key role during Belgium’s memorable run to the semi finals at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where the team eventually secured a third place finish after defeating England in the playoff match.
During that tournament, Lukaku scored four goals and formed one of the most dangerous attacking partnerships alongside Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard.
The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to be Lukaku’s fourth appearance at the global tournament, further strengthening his legacy as one of Belgium’s greatest ever footballers.
Belgium’s squad for the tournament also includes several experienced stars such as Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, and Axel Witsel, players who have formed the backbone of the national team for over a decade.
At the same time, the squad announcement reflects Belgium’s gradual transition toward a younger generation of players. Emerging talents have been included as the national team attempts to build a balanced squad capable of competing at the highest level while preparing for the future.
Among the younger names attracting attention is Matias Fernandez Pardo, who recently committed his international future to Belgium despite interest from Spain. Football observers believe his inclusion signals the federation’s determination to refresh the squad with youthful energy and attacking creativity.
Belgium enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying significant expectations despite recent inconsistency in international competitions. The country’s golden generation has come close to major success in previous tournaments but has yet to secure an international trophy.
The team has been drawn into a competitive group alongside Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand, with matches set to take place across the United States and Canada.
Football analysts believe Belgium possesses enough quality and experience to progress beyond the group stage, although much of the team’s attacking hopes may depend on Lukaku’s ability to regain full fitness before the tournament intensifies.
Supporters remain hopeful that the veteran striker can once again deliver on the international stage, where he has repeatedly proven himself as one of Belgium’s most reliable goal scorers during crucial moments.
As preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Belgium will be counting on Lukaku’s experience, leadership, and goal scoring instincts to inspire another deep run at football’s biggest tournament.
