Kevin De Bruyne from Napoli faces absence until early 2026 due to hamstring issue

Leaders in Serie A, Napoli, might have to manage without Kevin De Bruyne until the start of 2026, following confirmation from the club of a hamstring injury.

The ex Manchester City player picked up the knock while netting a penalty during his sides 3-1 win at home against Inter Milan on Saturday.

Upon successfully taking the penalty, the 34 year old from Belgium suddenly stopped, grabbed his right thigh, and then hobbled off the pitch assisted by the teams medical team.

This marked De Bruynes fourth goal in the league during his debut campaign in Italy, after transferring from City at the end of the previous season. He had previously found the net twice from penalties and once via a free kick.

"Kevin De Bruyne received medical assessments that showed a significant tear in the biceps femoris muscle of his right leg," Napoli announced in an official update.

"The athlete has started rehabilitation work," the statement continued, offering no additional information.

Reports from Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sport indicate that De Bruyne will likely not feature again this year, which is a setback for Napolis chances of holding onto the Serie A crown.

Napoli, up against Lecce on Tuesday, hold the top spot thanks to a superior goal difference, level on points with runners up AS Roma.