By Deborah Nnamdi
In a move that has stunned the football world, Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has officially signed with Serie A giants Napoli following his departure from Manchester City.
De Bruyne, 33, leaves City after nearly a decade of dominance in English football, where he won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups, and was instrumental in City’s historic UEFA Champions League triumph in 2023. Widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, his switch to the Italian top-flight marks a bold new chapter in an already illustrious career.
The Serie A champions’ president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, confirmed on Thursday.
Film mogul De Laurentiis posted a picture of himself shaking hands with De Bruyne on social media with the message “Welcome, Kevin!”
Napoli also confirmed the signing in an official statement on Thursday, hailing De Bruyne as a “world-class talent who brings exceptional vision, experience, and leadership to the club.” Terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed, though sources suggest De Bruyne has agreed to a two-year contract with an optional third season.
“I’ve achieved so much in Manchester and will always be grateful for my time there, but I felt the moment was right for a new challenge,” De Bruyne said in his first interview as a Napoli player.
“Napoli has a rich history, a passionate fanbase, and a clear ambition to compete at the highest level. I’m excited to be part of this project.”
De Bruyne’s move comes amid a broader squad reshuffle at Manchester City, where manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly preparing for a transitional phase after the club’s recent successes.
Napoli, who finished second in Serie A last season, are expected to build their squad around De Bruyne as they push for domestic glory and a deeper run in the UEFA Champions League.
