De Bruyne Gives Update On Champions League Final Injury
Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has revealed the facial injuries he suffered in the UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea could take up to six months to properly heal.
De Bruyne was at the receiving end of a heavy challenge from Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger in the Champions League final on May 29 that left the Manchester City man with a fractured nose and left eye socket.
De Bruyne’s participation in EURO 2020 was thrown into doubt in the aftermath of the collision especially when he was substituted straight after.
The 29-year-old had to undergo minor surgery before being cleared to take his place in the Belgium squad, although he missed their opening game of the competition.
He marked his return to action with a goal and an assist against Denmark on Thursday as Belgium booked their place in the last 16.
"I don't feel anything on the left side, like after a visit to the dentist," De Bruyne said after scoring the winner against the Danes, who were without Christian Eriksen.
"My nerve is very badly affected, which could take six months. It's not a comfortable feeling, but the most important thing is that I can play.
"The last two months have been up and down for me with minor injuries. After that fracture in the nose and eye socket, it was a bit of a wait.
"But luckily I came back in the fastest way. There was very good intensity for half an hour, [against Denmark] then I felt it. But I'm glad I was able to play."
Belgium have started their EURO 2020 campaign with back-to-back wins over Russia and Denmark.
