Because the soccer world counts all the way down to the 2026 World Cup, anticipation grows for what might be the ultimate international stage look of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two icons whose rivalry has outlined an period. But amid the thrill, certainly one of Europe’s largest stars now faces the unthinkable — his dream of that includes within the match could also be slipping away after a devastating harm blow.
Whereas Argentina and Portugal put together with their veteran leaders eyeing one final dance, one other elite playmaker – one whose imaginative and prescient and intelligence have formed fashionable soccer – has been left battling in opposition to time and his personal physique.
Throughout Napoli’s 3-1 victory over Inter, an evening meant to consolidate its Serie A title ambitions become a nightmare. Within the thirty eighth minute, skilled midfielder Kevin De Bruyne stepped as much as take a penalty — and scored. However moments later, he crumpled to the turf, clutching his proper thigh. Scans confirmed Napoli’s worst fears: a high-grade tear of the biceps femoris, the identical space that had required surgical procedure simply final yr.
In keeping with reviews from The Solar, “the setback has left his World Cup dream in actual jeopardy,” with medical doctors estimating a restoration interval of a minimum of 4 months. The Belgian worldwide has already undergone profitable surgical procedure in Antwerp and has returned dwelling to start an intensive rehabilitation programme.
Napoli launched an announcement confirming: “As scheduled, Kevin De Bruyne underwent surgical procedure right this moment in Antwerp following a high-grade tear to his proper thigh muscle. The surgical procedure was a whole success… he’ll proceed the primary post-surgical part of his rehabilitation in Belgium.”
The toll of brilliance and repetition
For the Belgian veteran, this harm feels painfully acquainted. The 34-year-old had solely simply begun to search out rhythm once more after comparable muscular issues plagued his last years at Manchester Metropolis. There, he received six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the Champions League, cementing his standing as one of many biggest playmakers of his era.
His transfer to Napoli final summer season was meant to be a contemporary begin, a last flourish in an illustrious profession. As an alternative, after simply eight Serie A appearances, it has turn out to be a check of endurance and endurance. Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that De Bruyne’s restoration window stretches from three to 5 months, with a return in February being “essentially the most optimistic situation.” If setbacks happen, his season – and probably his World Cup – might be over.
Belgium’s golden era unsure
Belgium, which wants just one extra victory to safe qualification for the World Cup, has been relying on its long-time talisman to information a transitioning squad. His management and passing vary stay irreplaceable. But sources near the nationwide staff concern the harm might rob the Crimson Devils of their heartbeat simply months earlier than the match begins.
“This was speculated to be his final World Cup,” a Belgian FA insider advised Het Laatste Nieuws. “He was decided to exit on his personal phrases — now it is determined by how his physique responds.” The timing is merciless. The 2026 World Cup, set to kick off on June 28 throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada, might be De Bruyne’s swan tune – an opportunity to steer his nation one last time after years of close to misses and heartbreaks.
