Kevin De Bruyne is set to leave Manchester City after nearly a decade at the club, with a stunning move to Napoli now all but confirmed.
The 33-year-old Belgian midfielder has agreed to a two-year deal with the Serie A champions, with an option to extend. Final negotiations concluded late Tuesday night, with sources close to the deal confirming that De Bruyne gave his approval earlier in the day.
“He’s ready for a new chapter,” said a source familiar with the talks, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the transfer. “The final green light came from Kevin himself. The clubs have worked quickly since then.”
Napoli are now preparing for De Bruyne’s medical, expected in the coming days. Once completed, the formalities of the deal will follow, making the playmaker an official Napoli player before the end of the week.
A Bold Move for Both Sides
For Napoli, the signing signals serious intent. Fresh off their first league title in over three decades, the club is aiming to cement its place among Europe’s elite. De Bruyne’s arrival would instantly boost their midfield quality and experience.
“This is a huge signing,” said former Napoli captain Marek Hamšík in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. “He brings leadership, vision, and the kind of passing that can change a game.”
From Manchester City’s end, the transfer marks the end of an era. De Bruyne has been central to the club’s dominance under Pep Guardiola, winning five Premier League titles, a Champions League, and numerous domestic cups.
Club insiders say the decision to part ways was mutual, with City now focused on refreshing their squad for the long term. De Bruyne, meanwhile, was reportedly seeking a fresh challenge and a new lifestyle for his family.
Fans React with Mixed Emotions
News of the deal has stirred a strong response from both sets of fans. Manchester City supporters expressed gratitude, while Napoli fans flooded social media with excitement.
“He gave us everything. I wish him nothing but success,” wrote one City fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“I can’t believe it. Kevin De Bruyne in a Napoli shirt? This is real ambition,” posted a Napoli supporter.
What’s Next?
De Bruyne’s move to Italy could shape the narrative of next season’s Serie A. Napoli, now under new manager Francesco Calzona, are already planning further signings, with sources hinting at more deals in the pipeline.
For De Bruyne, it’s a chance to write a new chapter in a storied career—this time under the southern sun, in front of the roaring crowd at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
As the football world watches, one thing is clear: Kevin De Bruyne’s journey is far from over.
