Napoli’s De Bruyne defends performances after Arsenal loss: ‘This is the real De Bruyne’ | OneFootball

Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne hit back at local media criticisms regarding his physical condition following the Partenopei’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in their Champions League opener at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Wednesday night.

Massimiliano Allegri handed the Belgian playmaker a starting berth in a grueling European clash where Napoli were forced to defend deep for long stretches.

Despite the defeat, the former Manchester City star created the hosts’ clearest opening in the closing minutes, nearly picking out Lorenzo Lucca with a precise pass across the face of goal that ultimately went begging.

However, speaking to Prime Video after the final whistle, with quotes via Fanpage, De Bruyne grew visibly irritated when questioned on how far away he was from reaching his optimal sharpness.

NAPLES, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 09: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli is challenged by Declan Rice of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between SSC Napoli and Arsenal FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on September 09, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

De Bruyne: ‘I don’t know what you expect from me’

“This is the real De Bruyne,” the Belgian playmaker retorted. “I don’t know what you expect from me, but I think I played a good game. I feel fine. I know that in Italy people talk a lot about physical fitness, but I’ve been feeling good right from the very first moment.”

The Belgian’s sharp response comes after a turbulent start to life in Serie A, having previously endured a strained dynamic under former manager Antonio Conte. Under Allegri, however, the midfielder feels a far better understanding has been established.

“My relationship with Allegri is going very well, he is a bit calmer and more relaxed,” De Bruyne explained when asked about the managerial transition. “When he speaks to me, he speaks in Italian, not in English.”