Injury-Plagued Romelu Lukaku Named in Belgium's World Cup Squad

Belgium has announced its squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, headlined by the inclusion of striker Romelu Lukaku despite recent injury concerns. The Napoli forward, along with midfield star Kevin de Bruyne and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, will participate in his fourth World Cup tournament. These veterans join defensive midfielder Axel Witsel as the most experienced players in the squad, boasting over 100 international caps each. Lukaku had been sidelined for nearly a year due to fitness issues, limiting his club appearances, but his recovery efforts have secured his place under coach Rudi Garcia. Notable exclusions include 17-year-old Nathan de Cat and forward Lois Openda. The team features Premier League talents like Leandro Trossard and Jérémy Doku. Belgium, aiming to improve upon their 2022 group-stage exit and replicate their 2018 third-place finish, is drawn into Group G. They will open their campaign against Egypt on June 15, followed by matches against Iran and New Zealand. The announcement confirms the core of Belgium's golden generation remains intact for one final major tournament push.