Lukaku stuck in the tunnel: Napoli's plans frozen by another delay

Napoli's patience is being tested - again.

Romelu Lukaku's long-awaited return remains out of reach, with the Belgian striker still sidelined more than four months after suffering a muscle injury in pre-season.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, optimism surrounding Lukaku's recent trip to Riyadh proved premature. Despite the call-up, the striker is still unable to increase his workload, and a return to action in the coming weeks has effectively been ruled out.

Conte opens up on Lukaku - the crucial world is 'patience'

Medical staff are refusing to gamble. Lukaku continues to struggle with a high-grade injury to the rectus femoris in his left thigh, and Napoli are determined not to risk a relapse after such a prolonged absence. Even a late-January comeback is now far from guaranteed.

The delay has consequences. Antonio Conte had hoped Lukaku's return would bring stability to his attack, but instead Napoli are being forced to rethink their January priorities. Rasmus Hojlund remains the focal point up front, yet doubts persist over depth during a decisive phase of the season.

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While midfield reinforcements once topped the agenda, encouraging signs from Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa's recovery have shifted the spotlight forward. With finances tight, Napoli's options are limited to loans or swaps - and everything depends on how much longer Lukaku's recovery drags on.

For now, Napoli wait. Again. And Conte's plans remain suspended, just like Lukaku's return.