Kevin De Bruyne's 2026 World Cup hopes in jeopardy

Rajarshi has been part of Khel Now since 2022, and he covers world football.

Published at :October 30, 2025 at 10:51 AM

Modified at :October 30, 2025 at 10:51 AM

Which shirt number will Kevin De Bruyne wear at Napoli?

The midfielder sustained an injury against Inter Milan.

Kevin De Bruyne’s World Cup ambition is in ruins due to an unexpected injury sustained over the weekend. The former Manchester City star suffered a serious injury to his thigh while helping Napoli defeat Inter Milan 3-1, in which he scored a penalty.

His camp sources are concerned that he may miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup next summer due to a high-grade thigh rupture, which occurred in the same area where he underwent surgery in 2023.

He will probably be out for at least four months, which is the same length of time as his last thigh injury.

Kevin De Bruyne’s chances of playing in the World Cup are in danger

Kevin De Bruyne Manchester City Premier League — The former Manchester City star is a doubt for the 2026 World Cup. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In order to continue with his recuperation, Kevin De Bruyne has already left Italy and returned to Belgium with his family. On June 28, 2026, the World Cup will begin. If Belgium defeat Kazakhstan next month, their spot will be confirmed.

Even if they lose and the Red Dragons further lose to Liechtenstein, they will still be guaranteed a spot in the top two of their group. Belgium are one of the teams thought to be able to make it all the way to the tournament.

🚨🇧🇪 Napoli confirm Kevin De Bruyne set to be sidelined for months with serious muscle injury.“Final tests confirm high-grade injury of biceps femoris of the right thigh”, with long time sidelined anticipated.Get well soon, Kev! pic.twitter.com/Tw1KeA6W1H
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 27, 2025

Considering that he has only made eight Serie A appearances for his new team this season, Napoli are also somewhat concerned that his season is done.

Kevin De Bruyne agreed to a two-year contract with the Italian powerhouses, with an additional year’s option. According to reports, he makes about £5 million annually at Diego Maradona’s previous club.

After ten years with City, where he won six Premier League titles, he left the team as a free agent in the summer to join Napoli.

Which injury has De Bruyne suffered?

He has picked up a thigh injury.

How long is he expected to be out?

He is anticipated to be out for four months.

Is he likely to miss the World Cup next year?

It depends on his fitness. The forward has suffered the injury in the same spot he sustained during his time at City.

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Rajarshi Shukla

After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.