Italian champions Napoli have landed a sensational coup today with the signing of Belgian midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne—following his exit from Manchester City.
Napoli Lands Free Agent De Bruyne: A Statement Signing for Serie A
The free transfer ends a decade-long, trophy-laden era at the Etihad and ushers in a new dawn at the Diego Maradona Stadium.
De Bruyne, now 33, inked a two-year deal (with an optional third year) and has already completed his medical in Rome, officially becoming a Napoli player on June 12, 2025.
Kevin De Bruyne lands in Italy set for medical tests as Napoli player! 💙✈️
🎥 @AeroportidiRoma pic.twitter.com/AYXL9ZxAwF
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 12, 2025
The move comes after Manchester City decided not to extend his contract, citing it a “business decision” despite his statistics: 422 appearances, 108 goals, and a staggering 177 assists in all competitions.
At City, De Bruyne lifted an astonishing 19 trophies—six Premier League titles, six League Cups, two FA Cups, and the club’s maiden Champions League win in 2023.
He also secured back-to-back Premier League Player of the Season awards and left with the second-highest all-time assist tally in Premier League history (119).
Napoli fans greeted him warmly upon arrival, with the club’s social channels proclaiming “King Kev is here,” and president Aurelio De Laurentiis adding a heartfelt “Benvenuto Kevin!”.
The Italian champions are preparing for a deep Champions League run, backed by Antonio Conte’s ambitious project.
In the midfield, De Bruyne will join forces with another Manchester veteran, Scott McTominay.
The Scotsman, a summer arrival in 2024 from Manchester United, just capped his first Napoli year by winning both the Serie A title and Most Valuable Player award.
Their link-up—Belgian playmaker meets gritty Scottish powerhouse—promises a midfield fusion of elegance and steel.
For De Bruyne, reports say he declined lucrative offers from MLS’s Chicago Fire to stay in top-tier European football and chase further Champions League glory.
In a simple yet powerful Instagram post declaring “Sono qui” (“I’m here”), he expressed excitement at joining Napoli’s passionate fanbase.
This transfer is more than a headline—it’s a statement. Naples now boasts one of Europe’s most formidable midfields.
With De Bruyne’s vision and McTominay’s work rate, Conte’s side could have the creative spark and engine to challenge across all fronts next season.
