Kevin De Bruyne set for Napoli return on August 5 after World Cup exit

Napoli have confirmed **Kevin De Bruyne** will return to training on August 5, marking a key step in Massimiliano Allegri’s rebuild at the club. The Belgian midfielder joins Romelu Lukaku on the same date, while Scott McTominay and Noa Lang will arrive earlier.

What did Allegri say about De Bruyne?

Allegri, unveiled as Napoli’s new coach on Tuesday, gave his first update on the club’s World Cup returnees. He stressed the need to see players in action before judging their form, adding that De Bruyne and Lukaku will join training on August 5.

“Until I see and coach players, making judgments from outside is always very difficult,” Allegri told reporters via **TuttoNapoli**. “I’m taking it with me. Starting tomorrow, we’ll get to know each other.”

Why De Bruyne’s return matters for Napoli

De Bruyne’s return caps a turbulent 2025-26 season under Conte, who left the club after winning the Scudetto and Supercoppa Italiana in two years. The Belgian’s presence is vital as Allegri reshapes the squad following their second-place finish last term.

Napoli’s pre-season starts Wednesday, July 15, with five World Cup players set to rejoin. Olivera, McTominay and Lang were knocked out early, while Lukaku and De Bruyne’s Belgium reached the quarter-finals.

What happens next for Napoli?

Allegri’s first sessions will focus on assessing fitness and chemistry. He’s made it clear Napoli will start pre-season “with whoever is available,” signaling a pragmatic approach to the rebuild.

The club’s World Cup contingent faces a tight schedule as Allegri looks to blend new signings with returning stars. De Bruyne’s recovery from injury and the 2025-26 campaign’s struggles will be under the microscope from day one.