Kevin De Bruyne heads back to the Etihad Stadium on Thursday brimming with confidence after a flying start to life at Napoli. The Italian champions, who opened their Serie A campaign with a perfect run, are looking to carry that momentum into the Champions League.
The 34-year-old Belgian midfielder has already netted two goals in his first three matches for Napoli, showcasing the creative brilliance that made him a Manchester City legend. Over ten years at City, De Bruyne lifted six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League trophy, before leaving after a series of hamstring injuries.
Napoli manager Antonio Conte has reshaped his side to accommodate one of football’s modern greats, handing De Bruyne a free-roaming creative midfield role. Conte hopes this adjustment will not hinder last season’s standout performer Scott McTominay.
During Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Fiorentina, De Bruyne opened the scoring from the penalty spot while dictating play with his trademark passing range. McTominay, shifted to the left, also thrived in an advanced attacking role.
“The role we’re creating for Kevin is perfect because he loves having the ball at his feet,” Conte said after the match. “He’s a bit of a genius. We want him to express the extraordinary vision that few players possess.”
Conte described Wednesday’s Champions League clash with City as “the moment of truth” for both himself and his squad. Pep Guardiola’s men underlined their strength with a dominant win in Sunday’s Manchester derby, despite a recent dip in form.
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