Kevin De Bruyne’s return to Naples for continued rehab, with a return unlikely before April, suggests bettors should avoid wagering on his availability for upcoming fixtures—consider unders or Napoli on adjusted handicaps until he’s match-fit; when he returns, expect Napoli odds and player-prop markets to shorten.
Kevin De Bruyne returns to Naples to continue rehabilitation
Kevin De Bruyne has returned to Naples to press on with his recovery after surgery on a high-grade tear in the right biceps femoris. The 34-year-old landed at Capodichino Airport on Sunday, February 22, and reported to the Napoli’s training centre the following day.
Injury and surgery
De Bruyne suffered the muscle tear in late October and subsequently went through surgery in Antwerp. The injury was judged severe enough to rule him out of action for an extended period and required a controlled rehabilitation program.
Training update and message to fans
On arrival in Naples De Bruyne told supporters he felt “well” and would “be back soon.” He will continue his rehabilitation with the club’s medical and fitness staff as they progress his phased return to training.
Expected return timeline
Club sources indicate De Bruyne is not expected to return to competitive action before April. The former Manchester City playmaker has four goals and two assists in 11 appearances across all competitions this season, and his absence leaves a creative void in Napoli’s midfield.
On-field impact and tactical outlook
Without De Bruyne’s vision and set-piece influence, Napoli will rely more on alternative creators and tactical adjustments to maintain attacking output. Opponents may adopt more compact defensive shapes knowing Napoli lack their primary playmaker, forcing the team to find goals from wider areas or set-piece routines.
Betting implications
Punters should treat De Bruyne’s status as a limitation through March: avoid markets that assume his presence, steer clear of backing him in player-prop markets before clear confirmation, and consider match markets that reflect Napoli’s reduced creative threat (unders, opponent handicap, or draw options).
Expect market shifts and shorter odds for Napoli and De Bruyne-specific props once an official return date is announced.
Napoli team news: Alisson Santos could make surprise start for Conte against Atalanta
Kevin De Bruyne’s return to Naples marks a positive step in rehabilitation, but realistic timelines and prudence are advised until he’s declared fit for selection.
Yahoo! News
