Belgium star Kevin De Bruyne is brimming with confidence about conquering his new challenge.
Though he became one of Manchester City’s legends during a decade-long career, his final days at the club didn’t go as hoped. Without an offer for a new contract, he was forced to leave his “beloved home.” As he prepares for a fresh start in Napoli, De Bruyne reflected on his time at City and shared his optimistic outlook for the road ahead.
Since joining City from Wolfsburg in 2015, De Bruyne quickly established himself as a key player, central to Pep Guardiola’s attacking strategy. Over the past ten years, he played a pivotal role in winning the club’s first-ever Champions League title, along with six Premier League trophies—four of them consecutive—and many other successes.
Last season, injuries took a toll on him, and his performances weren’t quite the same. Still, he retained the coach’s trust. However, the club didn’t offer him a contract renewal.
As a result, De Bruyne ended his time at City and joined Napoli on a free transfer last June. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, his voice clearly reflected the pain of having to leave, yet he expressed deep affection for the club.
“I spent a long time in the Premier League, and in the end, I was the one who decided to leave England,” he said.
“The decision I made, I stand by it, and I will always be a Manchester City player for life. But given how things ended there, I felt it was time to seek a new challenge.”
De Bruyne turned 34 last month but still sees himself competing at the highest level.
“When the club explained their full plan to me, I realized I could play in Italy and still perform at the top level—that excited me.”
At Napoli, he is reunited with his national teammate Romelu Lukaku, which also influenced his decision.
“Napoli are already champions, but they are strengthening their squad. I hope to help the team grow and also learn from them—a new style of football, a new kind of competition.”
“Romelu was happy about my arrival. We talked when we were at the national team camp, and he encouraged me to join. I’ve known Romelu since we were 13, so we have a strong bond. We spent two to three months together at Chelsea as well.”
Napoli will begin their title defense—having won Serie A twice in the last three seasons—on August 13 against Sassuolo.
