Kevin De Bruyne joins Napoli on a free transfer after Man City departure | OneFootball

Kevin De Bruyne has been confirmed as a Napoli player after arriving at the Serie A Champions on a free transfer.

Following a decade spent with Manchester City, De Bruyne’s departure from the club was revealed back in April after the club decided that they would not extend the Belgian’s contract.

The 33-year-old leaves the Etihad after establishing a legacy as one of the club’s greatest ever players. The midfielder was pivotal in an unprecedented period of success during his 10 years in Manchester.

The Belgian won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, a Champions League and a FIFA Club World Cup. Alongside these trophies, De Bruyne also collected a host of individual accolades. He was recognised as City’s Player of the Season on four occasions, named as the Premier League Player of the Season twice and listed in the FIFA World XI five times.

After the announcement regarding his future, speculation began on who his next club would be. De Bruyne was said to be open to joining Premier League rivals, although that never materialised. The midfielder was also linked with numerous sides in both the MLS and the Saudi Pro League.

However, De Bruyne has decided to continue playing his football at the top level in Europe. He has joined Napoli on a two-year deal with an option to extend for a further year.

It is a great move for the Italian side. They are already in a strong position after winning Serie A on the final day of last season. De Bruyne will be managed by former Chelsea and Tottenham boss Antonio Conte, who is currently in charge of Napoli.

The 33-year-old will link up with international teammate Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian striker netted 14 times in Serie A last season. His scoring is only likely to increase with the help of his countryman’s talent.

There will also be a familiar face for De Bruyne to line up in midfield with. Former Manchester United player Scott McTominay took Serie A by storm last season, with the Scotsman being recognised as the league’s Player of the Season in his debut campaign in Italy.