Kevin De Bruyne, one of the most accomplished midfielders of the modern era, has officially signed with Napoli, bringing an end to his legendary nine-year tenure at Manchester City. The Belgian international joins the Serie A giants on a free transfer, adding world-class experience and leadership to Antonio Conte’s ambitious project in Naples.
De Bruyne, 33, made 382 appearances for City, scoring 102 goals and providing 170 assists. During his time at the Etihad Stadium, he won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League, among other honors. He now brings that pedigree to a Napoli side aiming to return to the top after their 2023 Scudetto triumph.
“I’m immensely proud of everything we achieved at Manchester City,” De Bruyne said in a farewell message to fans. “But I believe now is the right moment for a new challenge. Napoli is a special club with incredible supporters, and I’m excited to be part of their journey.”
The move to Napoli was confirmed by both clubs this week, with De Bruyne expected to wear the number 17 shirt—already iconic in the city for another Belgian star, Dries Mertens. He is likely to make his debut in Napoli’s preseason tour and will be a key figure in the Supercoppa Italiana and Champions League campaign this fall.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis praised the signing: “Kevin is a world-class player. His intelligence, vision, and winning mentality will elevate our team and inspire our younger players. We’re building something great, and his arrival is a clear signal of our ambitions.”
This surprise move to Serie A underlines the growing appeal of Italian football to global stars once again. With Conte on the bench and De Bruyne on the pitch, Napoli fans are dreaming big—and perhaps of another Scudetto celebration in the near future.
Stay tuned to Italian-Football.org for all the latest updates on De Bruyne, Napoli, and the Serie A season ahead.
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