De Bruyne confident in regaining fitness and form at World Cup
Kevin De Bruyne is “convinced” he will “get back in shape and fully regain my form” after the opening games of the World Cup.
Belgium’s campaign gets underway on June 15 against Egypt, while they also face Iran and New Zealand in Group G at this summer’s tournament.
Belgium have progressed past the first round in seven of their last nine World Cup appearances – the only exceptions were in 1998 and 2022.
They have also lost only one of their last 15 group games at the World Cup (W8 D6), a 0-2 defeat against Morocco in 2022.
De Bruyne has provided the joint-most assists for Belgium at the World Cup (four – level with Eden Hazard), though the Napoli midfielder has struggled with injury this term.
A hamstring issue caused him to miss 30 games for club and country in 2025-26, but after completing his rehabilitation in Belgium, De Bruyne feels he is close to full fitness again.
“It’s hard to explain in front of a camera. At the beginning, I was scared because I had already suffered a hamstring injury two years ago,” De Bruyne said via TMW.
Destination: World Cup. pic.twitter.com/0m2Le1SeO9
— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) June 8, 2026
“This is why I decided to do the rehabilitation here. I have full trust in Lieven [Maesschalck] and his staff.
“We decided to bring the final part of the work on the pitch here [Belgium]. In practice, I spent the entire rehabilitation period here, and I think it was the best choice.
“I’ve never had relapses or moments when I didn’t feel well. I didn’t feel pain or discomfort.
“It’s a pity because I had started the season really well and felt in great shape, but now I look forward with confidence.
“I hope to be in my best shape as soon as possible. I feel ready, and I’m convinced that after a couple of games I’ll get back in shape and fully regain my form.”
