Kevin De Bruyne outlines vision for injury-free season at Napoli after starring role in Genoa victory

De Bruyne proved to be the difference-maker as Napoli kicked off their Serie A campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. Despite starting on the bench due to his late return from international duty, the Belgian maestro showcased his enduring class by scoring the opening goal and later setting up Antonio Vergara to seal the three points. It was the perfect start for the veteran midfielder, who is looking to put a frustrating debut season in Italy firmly behind him under the new management of Max Allegri.

"I’m happy, it was a difficult game, especially in the beginning,” De Bruyne told Sky Sport Italia. "After 20-25 minutes the team started to control, and in the second half we were pushing good. Obviously, we scored the two goals in the end, nice to start with a victory and keep a clean sheet as well."

The road to this point has not been easy for De Bruyne, who arrived in Naples as a free agent in the summer of 2025. His first year in Serie A was heavily disrupted by a serious thigh tear that required surgery, limiting his ability to influence games. Reflecting on the challenges of the previous twelve months, De Bruyne was candid about the difficulty of regaining rhythm mid-season.

"Last year was difficult, to have surgery like this and be out for five months. I think I started well last year, but it’s really hard to return in March when everyone else is in top form,” he explained. “I’ve only been here two weeks because of the World Cup, I think I’m doing well, I’m trying to help the team and hope to have an injury-free season, and I hope that I can enjoy my football."

The 35-year-old’s injury history was the primary reason City opted not to renew his contract at the Etihad, bringing a legendary spell in England to an end. Since then, De Bruyne has been focused on managing his body to ensure he can fulfill his potential in Naples. The Belgian is under no illusions about the physical demands of the sport at his age, acknowledging that his recent history has been defined by trips to the treatment room rather than his trademark assists on the field of play.

"I’ve been playing 18 years, obviously the last three years have been difficult, I had two surgeries and a hernia. I try to work hard and help the team, and they will help me too," De Bruyne noted.

Under the guidance of Allegri, Napoli appear to have found a more balanced approach that suits De Bruyne’s technical abilities. The Belgian’s relationship with the new coach will be vital if the Partenopei are to bridge the gap and clinch the league title. After finishing as runners-up last year, the expectations in Naples are higher than ever, and De Bruyne is aware that his contribution will be measured by more than just individual moments of brilliance, but by his ability to lead the team through a grueling campaign.

"Last season we finished second, which wasn’t bad, but we hope to do better this time,” he concluded.