Kevin De Bruyne is officially set to complete his anticipated transfer to Napoli, with the Belgium national team’s summer qualifiers now behind him. After over a decade dazzling English football, the midfield maestro is poised to embark on a fresh challenge in Italy, joining Antonio Conte’s resurgent Napoli side in their quest for European and domestic glory.
The 33-year-old maestro’s free agency has attracted attention across continents, but it is the Scudetto holders who have secured arguably one of the shrewdest signings of the summer.
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Belgian Manchester City Chapter, Prepares for Serie A Adventure
De Bruyne’s Manchester City career stands among the most decorated in Premier League history. His ten-year stint under Pep Guardiola saw him lift an astonishing haul of silverware — six Premier League trophies, one UEFA Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, a FIFA Club World Cup, alongside multiple domestic cups.
His creativity, vision, and leadership turned him into a linchpin for Guardiola’s evolving tactical systems. However, despite speculation linking him with lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, Major League Soccer, and other elite European clubs, the Belgian opted for a more sentimental and strategic choice — the city of Naples.
Delay Due to National Team Commitments
Initially expected to seal the Napoli move earlier this month, De Bruyne prioritized his commitments with Belgium, who were involved in vital World Cup qualifiers. The experienced midfielder started both fixtures — the 1-1 draw against North Macedonia and the thrilling 4-3 victory over Wales, where he fittingly netted an 88th-minute winner.
With international duty concluded, focus has now shifted entirely to the impending Serie A move.
Transfer Deal Nearing Completion
Reports from reliable Italian journalists, including Gianluca Di Marzio and Matteo Moretto, confirm that all critical formalities have been addressed. The midfielder has signed a two-year agreement with Napoli, and only a medical stands between him and official confirmation as a Napoli player.
The medical evaluation is expected within days, concluding one of the most significant Serie A transfer stories in recent memory.
Why Napoli Was De Bruyne’s Chosen Destination
De Bruyne’s decision wasn’t merely based on football alone. Personal factors played a major role. Notably, the midfielder and his wife tied the knot in Sorrento, near Naples, in 2017, fostering an emotional connection with the region.
Recent reports also indicated that his wife visited Naples recently to scout suitable residences and educational institutions for their three children, underlining the family’s commitment to making Naples home.
Footballing ambition undoubtedly influenced the decision as well. Napoli’s resurgence under Conte, coupled with their participation in next season’s UEFA Champions League, presented an appealing sporting proposition.
Familiar Faces and Belgian Connection
Napoli’s strategy of creating a supportive environment for their incoming superstar extended beyond family ties. Romelu Lukaku, De Bruyne’s long-time companion in Belgium’s golden generation, has reportedly been key in selling the Naples project to his compatriot.
Adding to this, former Napoli icon Dries Mertens has also shared glowing endorsements about his experience in southern Italy, contributing further to De Bruyne’s comfort with the move.
Conte’s squad features a growing Premier League alumni contingent, including players like Scott McTominay, Frank Anguissa, and Billy Gilmour — individuals whose presence ensures that De Bruyne will have no shortage of familiar company in his new footballing home.
With Conte at the helm and De Bruyne about to arrive, Napoli’s intent is crystal clear — they are building to not just defend their Serie A crown but also make an emphatic statement in European competition. Adding a player of De Bruyne’s caliber, leadership, and experience elevates that ambition significantly.
For De Bruyne, this represents both a professional and personal adventure — one that reconnects him with cherished memories while presenting him with one final chapter at the summit of European football.
FAQs
Why did De Bruyne pick Napoli?
He chose Napoli for their Champions League spot, recent Serie A success, and personal ties to the Naples region.
Is the deal official?
The contract is signed. Only his medical is pending before an official announcement.
Were other clubs interested?
Yes, clubs from MLS, Saudi Arabia, and Serie A showed interest, but Napoli won the race.
Why was the move delayed?
De Bruyne prioritized Belgium’s World Cup qualifiers before finalizing his transfer.
Will he have familiar teammates?
Yes, with Romelu Lukaku already at Napoli and support from former teammate Dries Mertens.
