De Bruyne confident of regaining peak form for World Cup

Kevin De Bruyne is preparing to participate in his fourth World Cup with Belgium, though the midfielder is not yet at full fitness just days before their opening match. 

Belgium’s campaign begins on June 15 against Egypt, with further Group G fixtures against Iran and New Zealand this summer.

The Napoli midfielder expressed confidence that he would regain his best condition after the initial games.

In an exclusive interview, De Bruyne stated that although the situation had been challenging, he hoped to reach his peak fitness as soon as possible. 

He added that he felt ready and was convinced that after a couple of matches he would get back in shape and fully regain his form.

Belgium have a strong record of advancing beyond the group stage, having progressed in seven of their last nine World Cup appearances.

The only exceptions came in 1998 and 2022. Their group-stage consistency is equally impressive: they have lost just one of their last 15 matches at this phase of the tournament (eight wins and six draws), with the sole defeat being a 0-2 loss to Morocco in 2022.

De Bruyne has been a key creative force for his country, providing the joint-most assists for Belgium at World Cups (four, level with Eden Hazard). 

However, the current season has been disrupted by injury. A hamstring problem forced him to miss 30 games for club and country throughout 2025-26.

Following the completion of his rehabilitation programme in Belgium, the midfielder believes he is now close to full fitness.

As Belgium aim to make a strong start in Group G, De Bruyne’s experience and vision will be vital. 

His gradual return to top form could prove decisive as the team seeks to improve on their recent tournament exits and advance deep into the competition. 

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how quickly the playmaker can recapture the influential performances that have defined his international career.