De Bruyne returns: When the Napoli midfielder is likely to play again | OneFootball

The end of Kevin De Bruyne’s long injury nightmare is finally in sight, with the Belgian midfielder making a significant step forward in his recovery this week.

De Bruyne has been absent since late October, when he suffered a serious high-grade bicep femoris tear during Napoli’s match against Inter on 25 October.

The injury, sustained in his right thigh shortly after scoring a penalty, has kept him sidelined for almost four months, a frustrating spell for both player and club during a crucial phase of the season.

NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

On Monday 23 February, De Bruyne returned to Napoli’s Castel Volturno training ground, working in the gym in what represents a meaningful sign that the worst is firmly behind him. Napoli are in no rush, however, with the club determined not to risk a setback by accelerating his return before he is fully fit.

De Bruyne ready to return for Napoli in March

De Bruyne himself offered a brief but encouraging message when he landed at Naples’ Capodichino airport on Sunday, greeted by waiting journalists.

According to Sky Sport, via CalcioMercato, De Bruyne could rejoin full group training as early as next week, the final step before Antonio Conte can consider calling him up for a competitive fixture.

NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli scores his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Should everything go to plan, the most likely matches to target for his return are Napoli’s home clash with Torino on the weekend of 8 March, or alternatively the home fixture against Lecce the following weekend. Cagliari away, scheduled for 21-22 March, represents a third possible target date.

After four months on the sidelines, Napoli fans may not have to wait much longer.