Kevin De Bruyne returns to full Napoli training following four month recovery from serious hamstring injury

Napoli's Kevin De Bruyne is back in full training following a major hamstring surgery. The Belgian star could return against Torino this Friday.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 3, 2026, 6:47 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Goal.com

The End of a Lengthy Rehabilitation

Napoli’s championship ambitions have received a significant boost with the official return of Kevin De Bruyne to first team training. The 34 year old Belgian international had been absent from the squad since late October 2025, following a devastating muscle injury. On Monday, De Bruyne participated in high intensity drills and tactical maneuvers under the supervision of Antonio Conte, marking his first full contact session since undergoing specialized surgery to repair his hamstring.

The Origins of the Injury Crisis

De Bruyne’s debut campaign in Italy was halted during a high stakes encounter against Inter on October 25, 2025. In a moment of physical irony, the midfielder suffered a serious hamstring tear while successfully converting a penalty. The severity of the damage required immediate surgical intervention and a prolonged period of recovery. To facilitate his rehabilitation, the former Manchester City star spent several months in his native Belgium working with trusted medical experts before returning to Italy last week.

Impact on Napoli’s Tactical Structure

Prior to his injury, De Bruyne had established himself as the creative heartbeat of the Partenopei, recording four goals and two assists in just 11 competitive appearances. His absence forced manager Antonio Conte to adjust the team's offensive transitions, lacking the veteran's signature vision and clinical delivery. The return of the "Belgian maestro" is expected to restore Napoli's creative potency as they enter the decisive final months of the Serie A season.