De Bruyne ‘part of the project’ at Napoli despite Conte criticism

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Napoli director Giovanni Manna has insisted Kevin De Bruyne is “part of the project” despite his criticism of Antonio Conte’s tactics last term.

De Bruyne joined Napoli as a free agent last summer, but missed a large part of the season through injury.

The midfielder contributed with five goals and four assists in 21 appearances last term, helping Napoli finish second in Serie A.

Ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, Conte has been replaced at the helm by Massimiliano Allegri.

De Bruyne was previously critical of Conte’s defensive tactics, stating they had “different visions of football” and he was happy to see the Italian coach leave.

Despite the comments, Manna claimed De Bruyne will remain at Napoli; he has a year left on his deal with an option for an additional 12 months.

“De Bruyne signed a two-year contract with an option for a third, so I don’t see why we need to keep asking what he’ll decide,” said Manna.

“When players sign contracts, they sign. Then the club decides what to do.

Albiceleste Napolitana 
19:26 pic.twitter.com/JfdrRZwzcT

— Official SSC Napoli (@sscnapoli) July 23, 2026

“I did not appreciate some of his words, but there’s no problem.

“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.

“Lukaku is on vacation, coming off a good World Cup, so we’ll see when he returns. De Bruyne has no decision to make. He was useful to the team last season until his injury, now he is a Napoli player.

“He has not yet spoken to Allegri, we await him at pre-season training. He was an important investment for us, and delivered less than his potential, but is still part of the project.”

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