Kevin De Bruyne has revealed that the allure of continuing to compete at the highest level in one of the biggest clubs in the Italian Serie A was enough to convince him to snub a lucrative departure from Europe in favour of committing his future to Napoli ahead of next season.
De Bruyne was surprisingly deemed surplus to requirements at Manchester City towards the end of last season. Despite still being one of the best players in his position, City opted against offering the Belgian playmaker a contract extension before his contract expired in June.
That drew the curtains on an illustrious and trophy-laden ten-year career at the Etihad for De Bruyne, making him available for free on the transfer market. Understandably, this sparked speculations about his next destination with even top Premier League sides, Arsenal and Liverpool credited with interest.
There were also talks about a lucrative move to Major League Soccer where Inter Miami held exclusive discovery rights, amid strong interest from San Diego and Chicago Fire. In the end, the allure of staying in one of Europe’s top five leagues and signing with the reigning champions of Italy proved irresistible.
“When I had the whole project in front of me and then the fact that I could play in Italy and still play at a high level was exciting for me,” De Bruyne told assembled media at his first Napoli press conference.
“I have been in the Premier League for so long and in the end I made the decision to go out of England. I have done what I have done and in the end I am a Man City player for life. It was also with the way that it ended for me, I thought, it is time to find a new challenge.
“Napoli already are champions but they are still improving their squad. I am hoping that I can help the team grow and I will also learn from them, a new way of playing, a new competition.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
