Football fans have been buzzing all week — and for good reason. Kevin De Bruyne is back in the spotlight, dazzling in Serie A and reminding the world why he’s still one of the best midfielders to ever grace the pitch.
The Belgian star has been described as “legendary,” “pure class,” and “on another level” after his brilliant performances for Napoli this season. It’s the kind of form that’s got many wondering: did Manchester City let him go too soon?
After eight incredible years at City, where he won 16 trophies and became one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted lieutenants, De Bruyne’s contract expired last summer. Many thought his best days were behind him — but Napoli clearly didn’t get that memo.
The 34-year-old has been on fire since the start of the 2025/26 season. With 11 goal involvements in 12 games across club and country — including eight goals and three assists — he’s having one of his most productive starts ever.
His recent brace in Belgium’s 4-2 win over Wales was a reminder of his world-class ability. It’s also the best scoring start to a campaign in his entire career.
Since his move to Italy, De Bruyne has looked right at home. He’s created the second-highest number of chances among Serie A midfielders and already scored three league goals — only Pulisic and Orsolini have managed more.
Meanwhile, Manchester City have had a solid but not dominant start to their campaign, which makes De Bruyne’s brilliance at Napoli even more bittersweet for City fans.
When Napoli visited the Etihad earlier this season, the script seemed set for a fairytale return — but De Bruyne’s night was cut short after a teammate’s early red card. Even so, his impact since then has been undeniable.
Despite losing the Belgium captaincy to Youri Tielemans, De Bruyne has responded like the champion he is — five goals in four games under new boss Rudi Garcia.
He’s now leading Belgium’s charge toward their fourth consecutive World Cup, proving that age is truly just a number when you have the kind of vision and football intelligence he does.
De Bruyne’s performances have reignited debate among pundits and fans: did Manchester City make a mistake letting him go?
At 34, he’s showing the same energy, creativity, and leadership that defined his time in the Premier League — and perhaps even more hunger to prove himself.
As one fan put it online: “De Bruyne didn’t leave the Premier League. The Premier League left him.”
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