Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is set for an extended period on the sidelines after scans confirmed a severe thigh muscle tear sustained during Saturday’s 3-1 Serie A victory over Inter Milan.
The 34-year-old Belgian international opened the scoring for Napoli with a penalty in the 33rd minute but immediately pulled up clutching the back of his right thigh. He was substituted shortly after and later seen on the bench with heavy strapping and crutches beside him, visibly distraught.
In an official statement released on Monday, Napoli confirmed: “Following the injury that occurred during the match against Inter, Kevin De Bruyne underwent instrumental tests at the Pineta Grande Hospital which showed a high-grade lesion to the femoral bicep in his right thigh. The player has already started the rehabilitation process.”
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While the club did not specify a return date, medical sources indicate that De Bruyne could be sidelined for several months — a major setback for both Napoli and Belgium. The injury is reportedly similar to the one suffered by his club and national teammate Romelu Lukaku during preseason, which has kept Lukaku out until January.
De Bruyne’s penalty against Inter was his fourth goal in eight Serie A matches this season, with the veteran midfielder also contributing significantly in the Champions League. His arrival on a free transfer from Manchester City in June had bolstered Napoli’s title defence, helping them reclaim the top spot in the league.
However, his absence now adds to Napoli’s growing injury concerns, with Stanislav Lobotka also sidelined and Frank Anguissa set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon between December and January.
The news is equally troubling for Belgium, who face crucial World Cup qualifiers next month. De Bruyne, who has been in exceptional form for his country — scoring six goals in his last five international appearances — will be sorely missed.
For Napoli, the injury casts a shadow over their strong start to the season and poses a serious challenge to maintaining their momentum at the top of Serie A without one of their most influential players.