Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has undergone a successful hamstring surgery in Belgium following the severe injury he sustained during Napoli’s 3–1 victory over Inter Milan on October 26. The 34-year-old Belgian international collapsed after converting a penalty in the first half, clutching his left leg in pain. Napoli later confirmed that medical examinations revealed a high-grade hamstring tear, ruling him out for at least three to four months. The operation took place on October 29 in Antwerp, conducted by a specialist who has previously treated elite athletes.
Details of the Injury and Surgery
The injury occurred just minutes after De Bruyne’s goal against Inter, when he sprinted back to cover defensively and suddenly stopped, grimacing in discomfort. He was immediately substituted and transported for scans. Following consultations between Napoli’s medical staff and the Belgian Football Federation, De Bruyne opted for surgical treatment instead of a conservative rehabilitation program, aiming to ensure a full recovery and prevent future relapses.
Doctors confirmed the surgery was successful, noting no complications. He will begin a supervised rehabilitation program in Belgium before returning to Naples for the second phase of recovery. Early reports suggest he will resume light training in January 2026, with a potential return to competitive action in February 2026.
A Setback in a Promising Napoli Start
De Bruyne’s injury comes at an unfortunate time. Since joining Napoli from Manchester City in the summer of 2025, he has made a seamless transition into Serie A, contributing three goals and four assists in nine appearances. His creativity and vision quickly transformed Napoli’s midfield, helping the reigning Serie A champions maintain their title-defense momentum.
Under manager Francesco Calzona, Napoli currently sit second in the table, just behind Juventus. De Bruyne’s leadership and tactical intelligence have been crucial in linking the team’s attack, particularly with forwards Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. His ability to control tempo and deliver incisive passes revitalized Napoli’s possession play and counter-attacking transitions.
Despite the setback, club insiders have praised his impact both on and off the pitch. Teammates have described De Bruyne as “a leader who raised standards,” while Calzona called his injury “a blow not only technically, but emotionally for the entire squad.”
History of Hamstring Problems
The Belgian playmaker has faced multiple hamstring injuries throughout his illustrious career. During his final seasons with Manchester City, De Bruyne missed several months in 2023 and 2024 due to recurring muscle strains. Specialists attribute these issues to the heavy workload he sustained during his Premier League and Champions League campaigns, where he played over 50 matches annually.
At 34, muscle-related injuries are particularly concerning, given the natural decline in elasticity and recovery speed. However, De Bruyne’s decision to undergo immediate surgery shows his commitment to prolonging his playing career at the highest level. Sports doctors believe that, with modern rehabilitation and proper conditioning, he can return to his previous form.
Impact on Napoli’s Season and Squad Depth
De Bruyne’s absence will test Napoli’s depth as they compete across domestic and European fronts. The club faces several key fixtures in the Serie A title race and the remaining UEFA Champions League group matches, which he is set to miss entirely. Without him, Calzona will likely turn to Piotr Zieliński and Stanislav Lobotka to shoulder creative duties in midfield, while youngster Gianluca Gaetano could see increased playing time.
Napoli’s sporting director has reassured fans that the club will not rush De Bruyne’s recovery. “We have complete confidence in Kevin’s professionalism and the medical team’s plan,” he said. “His long-term fitness is the priority.”
De Bruyne’s Resilience and Career Longevity
Throughout his career, Kevin De Bruyne has embodied resilience. After leaving Chelsea early in his career, he rebuilt his reputation at Wolfsburg before becoming a global star with Manchester City. His move to Napoli in 2025 was viewed as both a new challenge and a leadership opportunity. Despite his age, he remains one of the most productive midfielders in Europe, capable of influencing games with intelligence and precision.
Even before the injury, De Bruyne expressed confidence about his fitness management. In a recent interview, he said, “I’ve learned how to listen to my body more. Recovery and preparation are now part of how I play.” That discipline, combined with his experience, could help him overcome this latest setback.
Support from Fans and Teammates
Messages of support have poured in from across the football world. Former teammates at Manchester City, including Erling Haaland and Phil Foden, sent public wishes for a speedy recovery. Fans at Napoli’s Stadio Diego Armando Maradona displayed banners reading “Forza Kevin” during their most recent home match, a sign of the affection he has already earned from supporters.
Belgian national team coach Domenico Tedesco also commented, emphasizing that De Bruyne remains part of the Red Devils’ long-term plans. “He’s irreplaceable for Belgium. We will wait for him,” Tedesco said. The national team is expected to monitor his progress closely ahead of the 2026 UEFA Nations League and World Cup qualifiers.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery
De Bruyne’s rehabilitation will be closely managed by physiotherapists specializing in soft-tissue injuries. The initial phase focuses on inflammation control and mobility restoration, followed by strength conditioning. The final stage will include dynamic football-specific drills to prepare him for Napoli’s competitive environment.
Club sources have suggested that Napoli aims to reintegrate De Bruyne gradually, possibly giving him minutes in domestic cup fixtures before restoring him to full match fitness. His return could coincide with the knockout stages of the Champions League, giving Napoli a major boost heading into the business end of the season.
Conclusion
Kevin De Bruyne’s successful hamstring surgery offers hope that the Belgian star will make a full recovery and continue to shine in Serie A and Europe. Although his absence poses challenges for Napoli, the club remains optimistic about his eventual return. De Bruyne’s work ethic, professionalism, and leadership have defined his career, and those same qualities will now guide his comeback.
For now, fans in Naples and around the world will eagerly await the moment their midfield maestro steps back onto the pitch — ready to create, inspire, and once again remind the world why he remains one of football’s finest playmakers.
