Napoli have pulled off one of the biggest free agent signings in recent memory by confirming the arrival of Belgian superstar Kevin De Bruyne. The Serie A champions announced the deal on Thursday through club president Aurelio De Laurentiis, who posted a photo shaking hands with the veteran midfielder along with the message: “Welcome Kevin!”
De Bruyne, 33, has signed a two-year contract with the Naples-based club, with an option to extend for a third. The move ends his glittering 10-year spell at Manchester City, where he cemented his place as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
A Statement Signing from Napoli
The Belgian playmaker joins Napoli at a time when the club is aiming to defend its Serie A title and make a strong impact in the revamped UEFA Champions League. His arrival is not just a tactical boost, but a massive statement of intent from the Scudetto holders.
De Bruyne will be reuniting with familiar faces at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, including Belgium teammate Romelu Lukaku and former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay. The trio could form the spine of Antonio Conte’s side heading into a packed 2025/26 campaign.
KING KEV IS HERE
#ProudToBeNapoli | #ForzaNapoliSempre | #WelcomeKevin pic.twitter.com/7lh3BDGues
— Official SSC Napoli (@sscnapoli) June 12, 2025
De Bruyne’s Legendary City Career Ends
De Bruyne left Manchester City this summer after a trophy-laden decade that saw him become a symbol of Guardiola’s dominance in English football. During his time at the Etihad, he won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and most importantly, the Champions League in 2023.
He was known for his pinpoint passing, long-range shooting, and ability to dictate games from deep or advanced positions. With 102 assists in the Premier League, he ranks among the top creators in league history.
However, the final seasons of his time in Manchester were marred by recurring injuries. De Bruyne suffered two serious hamstring setbacks in the past two years, which sidelined him for significant portions of the season and raised questions about his long-term fitness.
Conte’s Midfield Revolution
Napoli head coach Antonio Conte, known for his demanding style and tactical precision, is believed to be the driving force behind the deal. Conte’s system thrives on powerful yet intelligent midfielders—qualities De Bruyne brings in abundance.
With Lukaku leading the line, McTominay offering box-to-box energy, and De Bruyne orchestrating from midfield, Napoli look poised to challenge domestically and in Europe.
Conte’s men clinched the Serie A title dramatically on the final day of the season, edging out Inter Milan in a fierce race. But with the expanded Champions League set to pile on extra matches, the club needed players with European pedigree and big-game experience—boxes De Bruyne checks with ease.
The Free Transfer of the Summer?
Napoli’s ability to snap up De Bruyne without a transfer fee is already being hailed as a masterstroke. While his age and injury history were likely factors in City’s decision not to renew, De Bruyne still has plenty to offer when fit.
His leadership, technical quality, and winning mentality will be vital for a club looking to stay on top. At 33, he might not play every game, but his influence on and off the pitch could be invaluable.
The move has also added a layer of glamour and global attention to Serie A. Italian football continues its resurgence, and having stars like De Bruyne, Lukaku, and McTominay in one midfield only adds to the league’s allure.
De Bruyne’s New Chapter in Naples
While no official debut date has been confirmed, fans are already buzzing about seeing De Bruyne in Napoli’s iconic sky-blue kit. His first competitive appearance could come in the Italian Super Cup or the opening weekend of the Serie A season.
With Champions League football back on the agenda and Napoli eager to make a splash in Europe, De Bruyne’s arrival comes at the perfect time. It marks a new chapter for a player who’s conquered England and now sets his sights on Italy.
From Etihad to the Maradona, the maestro in midfield is ready to orchestrate once again.
READ NEXT:
