Kevin De Bruyne Faces Months Out with Serious Hamstring Injury

Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is set to miss several months of action following a high-grade tear to the biceps femoris muscle in his right thigh, the club confirmed on Sunday. The 34-year-old Belgian suffered the injury during Napoli’s 3-1 Serie A victory over Inter Milan on October 25, a match in which he scored the decisive penalty to give the defending champions the lead.

The injury occurred as De Bruyne powerfully struck the spot-kick, forcing him to leave the pitch in tears and requiring assistance from medical staff. Final tests revealed the severity of the tear, with recovery expected to take three to five months, potentially ruling him out until early 2026. This setback disrupts Napoli’s title challenge under coach Antonio Conte, who is already managing a squad hampered by injuries.

De Bruyne, who joined Napoli on a free transfer from Manchester City in June 2025, had been in scintillating form, contributing four goals and two assists in 11 appearances this season. The injury also jeopardizes Belgium’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, where he has been a key figure with four goals and two assists. Napoli now faces a tactical reshuffle as they aim to maintain their position at the top of Serie A.