Lukaku: Last season was the worst of my career, I was boycotted at Napoli

Romelu Lukaku delivered a blunt assessment of his final season at Napoli after completing a move to Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahçe, saying the previous campaign was the worst of his career and accusing the Italian club of sidelining him.

After joining Fenerbahçe

Speaking after a 1-1 draw between Fenerbahçe and Lyon, the 33-year-old striker reflected on a turbulent year in which he played only 102 minutes across all competitions for Napoli and scored a single decisive goal — the winner against Verona. Lukaku also referred to the personal and physical setbacks that marked the season, including the death of his father earlier this year, slow recovery from injuries and a row with Napoli over his decision to recuperate in Belgium.

On his new deal he said: "I signed with Fenerbahçe for one year plus another one. I hope I can make the most of these two years. Then I will go back home. I will still be in shape, I have always said I want to keep playing until 2030, including for the national team. After that I will stop. There are already many players who are on the pitch until they are 40. It is a question of mentality. In Turkey it will be a new professional experience, but at the highest level. You know who I am, I need motivation. I will play in a big league, I will fight for trophies, maybe I will be in the Champions League. That will be good for me and for the national team," he said.

Lukaku was candid about his exit from Naples: "Why did I choose to leave Napoli? Things happened, certain choices were made. It was best for me to leave. It was the worst year of my career. Was I out of shape? No, I was more boycotted," he added.

Fenerbahçe signed the Belgian forward hoping his arrival will strengthen their attacking options; Lukaku framed the transfer as an opportunity to regain form, compete for silverware and remain in contention for international selection.

Photo: press material from the event