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Kevin De Bruyne Proves Manchester City Wrong As He Shines Brightly At Napoli
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.
De Bruyne’s Best Start To A Season Yet
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.
Napoli’s New Maestro
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.
A Leader For Belgium — Still Going Strong
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.
City’s Loss, Napoli’s Gain
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.”
For more top football stories, analysis, and global sports insights, stay tuned to Sports Market International — your home for the best sports blog and updates in the sports market.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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