Lukaku hints at Belgium retirement after Euro 2020

Belgium's all-time record scorer Romelu Lukaku has suggested he will have retired before the next World Cup in Qatar comes around.

Published : Aug 16, 2018 23:07 IST

Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku has revealed he plans to retire from international football after Euro 2020, despite the fact he will be just 27.

Lukaku is his nation's all-time top scorer having found the net 40 times in 75 games and was instrumental in Belgium reaching the World Cup semifinals in Russia.

However, the 25-year-old has suggested he will not be part of the team in Qatar in four years as he is prepared to call time on his international career after the next European Championship.

"After the Euros, I think I'll stop," the Manchester United striker said in an interview with Business Insider.

"I'm 25, I'm like, I'm not even in my prime yet. So I still see [younger players] as competition right now because they try to take my spot and I don't want to give it up to them. So like another two years, and then they can have it."

Lukaku added he fears the next generation lack drive due to the finances given to youngsters today.

"Because with soccer now, at the minute, there's a lot of money involved at a young age," he said.

"Money that you can earn in the pros, you can earn it already at 12, 13. So it takes the hunger away from you."

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