Kevin De Bruyne's decision to stay with Belgium rattles Naples
Kevin De Bruyne's choice to stay with the Red Devils in Paris, while he was suspended, triggered the frustration of Naples coach Massimiliano Allegri. The decision, made before the Nations League match against France, fueled the debate in Italy about the priorities of the Belgian midfield.
Context of the trip
Kevin De Bruyne, 35, accompanied Belgium to Paris for the Nations League match against France. Although he could not play, his presence was seen as support for the generational transition led by manager Mark van Bommel, ahead of Euro 2028.
Naples' expectations
Naples, which signed De Bruyne in 2025, hoped to see him return earlier to the Neapolitan city. The club pays him about six million euros a year, which creates high expectations regarding his involvement both on the sporting and behavioural level.
Italian reactions
According to La Repubblica, De Bruyne's decision to stay longer with Belgium does not necessarily fall under the Belgian Federation, which would probably have accepted a request from Naples. Italian media argue that the player never sought permission to leave the Red Devils' camp prematurely.
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This explanation, although surprising, highlights that De Bruyne did not travel with the team to France in order not to neglect his obligations to the club. Nevertheless, he continues to place great importance on his national role and on building a new Belgian generation.
Allegri expressed his displeasure at what he perceives as a lack of communication from the player. The Neapolitan club, while acknowledging De Bruyne's sometimes distant character, expects exemplary behaviour from him proportionate to his salary and his status.
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In summary, the Italian debate around Kevin De Bruyne highlights the tension between the demands of a Serie A club and the ambitions of a national team undergoing transformation, while reminding of the stakes of Euro 2028 for Belgium.