Kevin De Bruyne reassured Napoli fans "I'll be back" after his injury-hit season finally came to an end on Friday.

After struggling with a thigh injury for the majority of the 2025-26 campaign, De Bruyne returned for the final three months of Napoli's season before featuring at the World Cup for Belgium.

He helped his country reach the quarter-finals in what will likely be his final appearance at the tournament, while Napoli finished second in Serie A after failing to retain their title.

De Bruyne made just 18 league appearances for Napoli in his debut season and three more in the Champions League, where Napoli were knocked out in the league phase.

However, following Belgium's World Cup exit to Spain, the 35-year-old insisted he can return in good condition after a break.

“Let me take a break, I’ve just finished the last game of the season," said De Bruyne.

"It’s been a tough year. I worked hard, and I’ve shown I can return in top condition after a very serious injury.

"Let me take a break, and then I’ll be back."

Napoli will be under new management for the 2026-27 season, with Massimiliano Allegri replacing Antonio Conte at the helm.

Their Serie A campaign starts on August 22, when they travel to face Genoa, while their first home game comes against Como a week later.