Napoli’s Serie A title defence has suffered an early setback as star striker Romelu Lukaku has been ruled out of their opening fixture against Sassuolo after picking up a serious thigh injury.
The Italian champions confirmed on Monday that the 32-year-old Belgium international tore a muscle in his left thigh during last Thursday’s pre-season friendly against Olympiakos.
While Napoli did not provide a specific timeline for his recovery, Italian media reports suggest Lukaku could be sidelined until November, with surgery being considered as a possible option.
The setback comes as a major blow to coach Antonio Conte, who relied heavily on Lukaku last season as the striker netted 14 goals and provided 10 assists to help Napoli clinch their historic fourth Scudetto.
Napoli kick off their title defence away to newly promoted Sassuolo on Saturday, but will now have to do so without their talisman leading the line.
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