Why doesn’t Romelu Lukaku start in Belgium versus Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Belgium will take on Senegal in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Seattle Stadium in Seattle on Monday.

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Striker Romelu Lukaku is not included in the starting line-up, with head coach Rudi Garcia preferring Charles de Ketelaere up front.

The 33-year-old came to the World Cup after struggling with injuries, making just six appearances for Napoli in Serie A. The forward was sidelined due to a thigh problem and also inflammation in his hip flexor muscle.

Lukaku has played just 102 minutes in three group games, including a start in the 0-0 draw against Iran.

He came off the bench against New Zealand to score his first goal of the tournament and register an assist. Coach Garcia will likely use him as an impact substitute off the bench during the tournament.

Lukaku is the Belgian top scorer with 90 goals in 126 appearances. Kevin de Bruyne is the second highest scorer with 37.

Published on July 2, 2026