Kevin De Bruyne has reassured Napoli supporters that he will return for the new campaign after Belgium’s World Cup journey ended in the quarter-finals. The midfielder delivered a clear message to fans of the Italian club following the 2-1 defeat to Spain, insisting he intends to come back stronger following a testing first year in Serie A.
Belgium’s tournament concluded with a narrow loss to Spain in the last eight. Mikel Merino’s decisive goal sealed the victory for La Roja, sending the Red Devils home and bringing De Bruyne’s extended season to a definitive close. The result extinguished Belgium’s hopes of global glory and shifted the playmaker’s focus immediately to club matters.
Speaking to DAZN after the match, De Bruyne addressed questions regarding his readiness for the upcoming term. “Let me take a break and then I’ll be back,” he said, acknowledging the physical toll of a long campaign. The midfielder emphasized that he has demonstrated his capacity to return to peak condition following the serious injury that disrupted his debut Napoli season, noting that he worked hard to regain fitness in time to play a leading role for his country throughout the tournament.
De Bruyne’s first year in Naples was severely curtailed by fitness setbacks, limiting his domestic contributions despite his high-profile arrival from Manchester City. His prominent performances for Belgium at the World Cup underscored his successful rehabilitation, featuring in every match until the quarter-final exit.
Now the midfielder will enjoy a short rest before joining Massimiliano Allegri’s squad for pre-season preparations. The incoming Napoli manager will view De Bruyne’s fitness and availability as central to his tactical plans for the 2025-26 season, particularly given the playmaker’s creative influence during Belgium’s run to the last eight. Napoli will hope their key asset can maintain the match sharpness displayed on the international stage as they seek to close the gap on the division’s leading sides next term.