Kevin De Bruyne Joins Napoli After Emotional Man City Exit: “He’ll Be Treated Like a God”
Written by Okafor Joseph, Editor | June 17, 2025 | SpringnewsNG Media Limited
Football Transfer News | Kevin De Bruyne | Napoli | Manchester City
The 33-year-old playmaker, widely considered one of the greatest midfielders of the modern era, ended his time at the Etihad Stadium with a staggering 19 trophies, including six Premier League titles and a coveted UEFA Champions League crown.
De Bruyne’s Painful Exit from Manchester City
Despite De Bruyne’s wish to remain with City, the club opted not to renew his contract, leading to what many fans and pundits are calling a “painful” departure. Speaking to Sports Mole, Steven McInerney from the Esteemed Kompany podcast said:
“It’s absolutely painful. He’s genuinely my favourite ever Manchester City player. Kevin is a once-in-a-generation talent.”
De Bruyne, who has registered 108 goals and 177 assists in 422 appearances for City, is set to begin a new chapter in Serie A, having signed a two-year deal with Napoli, with an option for a third year.
Warm Welcome in Naples
Upon arriving in Italy for his medical, De Bruyne was greeted by ecstatic Napoli fans, underscoring his immense global appeal. The Italian champions believe they have landed a player who will not only bring experience but also elevate their status in European football.
“Napoli will treat De Bruyne like the god that he is,” McInerney said. “He’s a special footballer who belongs in the same conversation as Modric, Iniesta, and Zidane.”
Perfect Fit for Serie A
Injuries may have hampered his last few seasons at City, but De Bruyne showed flashes of his brilliance late in the 2024/25 campaign, starting seven of City’s final eight league games and helping them secure Champions League qualification.
McInerney believes the tempo of Serie A will suit the veteran midfielder:
“He’ll enjoy the slightly slower pace. It’s a passionate league, and Napoli is a club with rich history and emotion—exactly the kind of setting De Bruyne will thrive in.”
De Bruyne will also reunite with Romelu Lukaku, and could form a fascinating midfield trio with Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour, making Napoli a team to watch closely next season.
End of an Era, Beginning of a Legacy
De Bruyne’s exit marks the end of an era at Manchester City, but his legacy is unquestionable. Many believe that if he had achieved the same feats at a historically revered club like Real Madrid or Liverpool, he would already be universally recognized as one of the all-time greats.
“Time will be kind to King Kev,” McInerney insisted. “When the dust settles, people will see just how special he was.”
As De Bruyne gears up for his new journey in Italy, fans across Europe will be watching closely to see if he can guide Napoli to another Serie A title or even European glory.
Stay tuned to SpringnewsNG Media Limited for the latest updates on Kevin De Bruyne, Napoli transfers, and more top football stories.
