Kevin De Bruyne Sends Subtle Dig at Guardiola After Man City Exit: “I Still Belong at the Top”
New Napoli star confident he can maintain elite level despite City snub
Kevin De Bruyne has officially ended his historic tenure at Manchester City, sealing a two-year deal with Napoli after the Premier League champions opted not to renew his contract. The decision, led by Pep Guardiola and the club’s board, sparked widespread debate especially after De Bruyne’s recent comments suggesting he still has plenty left in the tank.
“I wanted to prove I’m still world-class”
In an interview with Soy Calcio, the 33-year-old Belgian midfielder opened up about his move to Serie A, stating that Napoli represents the best competitive challenge for this stage of his career.
“From a competitive standpoint, it’s the best place for me. I have the opportunity to showcase my skills,” De Bruyne said, adding that the shift in culture and climate motivates him.
His remarks also seemed to include a veiled message to Guardiola, implying that City underestimated his ongoing potential:
“I have the desire and ability to compete at this level. The climate is different from England, and I wanted to show that I can play at the highest level.”
Napoli’s new No. 11 ready to lead in Serie A
De Bruyne arrives in Naples as the club’s new number 11, eager to prove critics wrong and bring creativity, vision, and experience to a side looking to bounce back from a difficult season. With Napoli aiming to reclaim domestic dominance and make a deeper run in the Champions League, De Bruyne could be a game-changer.
Guardiola reshapes City’s core
Manchester City, meanwhile, is undergoing a major squad overhaul. De Bruyne’s exit coincides with the departures of Kyle Walker, Yan Couto, Máximo Perrone, and veteran goalkeeper Scott Carson. These changes signal the start of a new era at the Etihad Stadium.
More exits could be on the horizon, including Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson, who is reportedly a target for Saudi clubs. City is eyeing Porto’s Diogo Costa as a potential successor.
