Napoli has been dealt a serious blow this season. After several days of uncertainty, medical tests confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne has suffered a high-grade hamstring injury in his right leg — a devastating diagnosis that will keep the team’s star player out for several months.

An unexpected blow for the Azzurri

The Belgian midfielder sustained the injury during the Serie A clash against Inter Milan, moments after scoring the penalty that gave Napoli a temporary lead. Immediately after taking the shot, De Bruyne grimaced in pain and asked to be substituted, sparking concern on the bench.

Tests conducted at the Pineta Grande Hospital confirmed the worst-case scenario: a serious injury to the right hamstring that will require an extended recovery process. The club released an official statement on its social media channels:

“Following the injury sustained during the match against Inter, Kevin De Bruyne underwent instrumental tests at the Pineta Grande Hospital, which revealed a high-grade lesion in the right hamstring. The player has already begun his rehabilitation process.”

No return before February

According to club sources, De Bruyne is not expected to return before February 2026, meaning he will miss at least three months of action. This leaves Antonio Conte without his most influential playmaker — a key figure in Napoli’s attacking system.

The Italian manager now faces the challenge of finding tactical alternatives to keep the team competitive in both Serie A and European competitions. De Bruyne’s absence adds to a growing list of injuries that have complicated Napoli’s start to the season, forcing Conte to rethink his lineup and strategy.

An irreplaceable presence

Since joining the club, De Bruyne has been the heart of Napoli’s midfield, dictating the tempo with his passing precision, vision, and scoring ability. His influence extended far beyond his technical qualities — he was the creative engine driving the team’s ambitions.

Now, Napoli must learn to cope without their star as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season. The hope within the club is that De Bruyne’s rehabilitation progresses smoothly, allowing him to return in time to make an impact in the final months of the campaign.