De Bruyne said he could be back at training next month as he targets a return in time for the blockbuster Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Nov. 11.
"I still need three, four, five weeks, but I'm getting there," De Bruyne said at the launch of FIFA 19 on Thursday.
"Hopefully I can be back soon, help the team, and perform well. I'm hoping to be back after the next international break. I think I will be back for the derby."
City, currently third in the league standings with 13 points, visit promoted Cardiff City on Saturday.