Napoli have confirmed that star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has sustained a serious thigh injury and has already begun his rehabilitation process.
The ex-Manchester City star hurt himself while taking the penalty during the 3-1 win against Inter Milan in Serie A over the weekend.
He will travel to Belgium to undergo surgery, and journalist Gianluca Di Marzio projects his absence to be around three to four months.
It is massive setback for Antonio Conte’s side in their quest to defend the Scudetto and achieve more success in the Champions League.
The Partenopei recruited De Bruyne on a free transfer from Man City this summer, and his impact has been palpable.
He has racked up four goals and two assists in all competitions. His best performance came against Sporting CP in the Champions League, when he delivered two world-class assists to Rasmus Hojlund.
While De Bryune’s performances were criticised during the defeats against Torino and PSV Eindhoven, Napoli bounced back with an emphatic victory against a dominant Inter side.
De Bruyne will join Stanislav Lobotka, Alex Meret and Romelu Lukaku on the injured list.
More responsibility will weigh on the shoulders of midfield duo Scott McTominay and Frank Anguissa, who were on target against Inter Milan.
Billy Gilmour looked solid as the lone defensive pivot during the win against Inter and will look to carry on the momentum.
After missing the last three games with muscle fatigue, Hojlund is expected to receive the green light ahead of tonight’s Serie A clash against Lecce.
The Partenopei are currently at the top of the Serie A table, tied on points with Roma.
