Napoli star Kevin De Bruyne has suffered a major injury that could keep him out for a long period of time, according to an official statement from the Italian club on Monday evening.
De Bruyne left the Inter match after suffering a severe injury while taking a penalty kick that beat goalkeeper Yann Sommer. He was unable to stand or walk afterward and was taken off the field in an ambulance.
The Belgian star underwent comprehensive tests on Sunday, which revealed a severe tear in his right thigh muscle. Napoli declined to comment on the expected length of time the 35-year-old will be out of action.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, De Bruyne will be out for at least two months, and in a worst-case scenario, he could be out for up to five months. This depends primarily on the treatment plan and speed of recovery.
De Bruyne’s absence undoubtedly compounds coach Antonio Conte’s problems, especially given Romelu Lukaku’s absence since the start of the season due to a serious knee injury.
De Bruyne joined Napoli on a free transfer this summer and has appeared in 11 matches between Serie A and the Champions League, scoring four times in Serie A and providing two assists for the Blues.
