Kevin De Bruyne has opened up about his decision to join Napoli this summer, emphasizing the Italian club’s “ambitious project” as the driving force behind his high-profile move. The Belgian midfielder, who recently departed Manchester City after a decorated nine-year tenure, finalized his switch to the reigning Serie A champions last week. His remarks, shared via transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, came ahead of Napoli’s preseason friendly against Arezzo on Tuesday.
De Bruyne highlighted the clarity of Napoli’s vision as a key factor in his choice. “I decided to join Napoli because the project is ambitious, and I can feel the club is progressing fast,” he said. “My excitement was clear when they presented me with their plans. I believe here we can be competitive—that’s exactly what I wanted.” The 33-year-old’s signing marks a significant coup for Napoli, which secured its first league title in 33 years in 2023 but faced a turbulent follow-up season, leading to the appointment of manager Antonio Conte in June.
The move signals a new chapter for both De Bruyne and Napoli, with the midfielder’s experience and creativity expected to bolster Conte’s tactical setup. Notably, De Bruyne has already taken an active role in shaping the squad, reportedly urging Conte to pursue a reunion with Jack Grealish, his former Manchester City teammate. Grealish, who saw limited playing time under Pep Guardiola last season, could add further depth to Napoli’s attacking options as the club aims to reclaim domestic dominance and make strides in European competitions.
De Bruyne’s arrival underscores Napoli’s determination to rebuild under Conte, a manager renowned for transforming teams into title contenders. The club’s aggressive transfer strategy, coupled with De Bruyne’s leadership, has sparked optimism among supporters eager for sustained success. While financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, the transfer aligns with Conte’s preference for seasoned players capable of executing his high-intensity system.
As Napoli prepares for its Serie A opener in August, all eyes will be on how De Bruyne adapts to Italy’s top flight. His presence not only elevates the team’s technical quality but also serves as a statement of intent for a club looking to reestablish itself among Europe’s elite. With preseason preparations underway, De Bruyne’s integration into the squad—and his potential influence on future signings—will be pivotal in shaping Napoli’s trajectory this season.
