Kevin De Bruyne will remain at Napoli next season despite publicly criticizing Antonio Conte's defensive tactics, sporting director Giovanni Manna confirmed. The Belgian midfielder's candid remarks about his difficult first campaign in Serie A sparked speculation over his future, but the club has moved to settle the matter as Massimiliano Allegri takes over as head coach.
De Bruyne did not mince words when discussing his experience under Conte, telling Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad that the two held fundamentally different footballing philosophies. The playmaker felt constrained by Napoli's defensive setup, particularly in a 5-4-1 formation that limited his creative influence. He highlighted the team's struggle for goals—the top scorer managed just 10 across the entire campaign—as evidence the tactical approach was unsustainable. When asked directly if he was pleased to see Conte depart, De Bruyne responded bluntly: "For me, yes. As far as I'm concerned, he didn't have to stay."
Manna Plays Down Friction, Confirms De Bruyne Stays
Manna addressed the midfielder's criticism during a press conference, acknowledging he had taken note of the comments. "I did not appreciate some of his words, but there's no problem," the director stated, emphasizing that contractual reality supersedes any public discord. De Bruyne's deal runs through 2026 with an optional third year, binding him to the club regardless of tactical disagreements.
The sporting director was unequivocal about the midfielder's role under Allegri. "Kevin doesn't have to decide if he's staying or leaving; he is part of the project and will put himself at the disposal of the coach, just like all the other players," Manna said. He acknowledged De Bruyne had underperformed relative to his world-class standards but framed the signing as a long-term investment still worth pursuing under fresh leadership.
Manna also addressed transfer speculation surrounding fellow attackers Romelu Lukaku and André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, confirming both remain integral to Napoli's plans. The director dismissed any notion of selling Anguissa, stating flatly: "Frank Anguissa has a contract with Napoli, so I see no need to negotiate with him. He is not for sale." Lukaku, currently on vacation after the World Cup, is expected to return without immediate discussions about his future.
De Bruyne is scheduled to meet Allegri once pre-season training commences, offering the opportunity to reset their working relationship and explore how the Italian tactician might unlock the midfielder's creative potential in a more attacking framework. Napoli faces a defensive injury concern with Alessandro Buongiorno sidelined for up to three months, prompting the club to accelerate plans to integrate Dutch centre-back Sam Beukema into the squad.
