Kevin De Bruyne denies any issues with Antonio Conte after Napoli’s 2-1 win over Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League.
Kevin De Bruyne has swiftly put to rest speculation of a rift with Napoli coach Antonio Conte following their 2-1 Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon.
His two assists marked the Belgian midfielder’s impressive performance for Rasmus Hojlund’s goals.
De Bruyne’s first assist was a beautifully weighted pass that allowed Hojlund to slot the ball past Sporting goalkeeper Rui Silva. His second assist came from an excellent corner kick that Hojlund headed into the net.
The win was particularly significant given the recent controversy surrounding De Bruyne’s relationship with Conte.
After being substituted against AC Milan, De Bruyne’s reaction sparked rumors of tension between him and the coach. However, De Bruyne was quick to clarify that there’s no issue between them. “With Conte, there has never been any problem,” he said after the match.
De Bruyne emphasized his focus on enjoying football and contributing to the team’s success. “I am a winner, I want to play football and make a difference. A lot has been said and written, but I just want to enjoy myself and move forward.”
In the match against Sporting Lisbon, De Bruyne played a central role, while Scott McTominay was deployed wider.
De Bruyne explained that this tactical setup was a coach’s decision and highlighted the flexibility within the team. “At the start, I played in a similar way at City, often dropping deeper. These are the coach’s decisions, but I think we can switch positions between the four of us. Without a real left winger, sometimes it is difficult to find depth.”
De Bruyne’s arrival at Napoli this summer generated significant excitement, given his reputation as a Premier League legend. Despite some initial challenges, he has been excellent for Conte’s team this season. His performances have showcased his ability to adapt to different systems and players.
The win over Sporting Lisbon was a crucial step for Napoli in their Champions League campaign. With De Bruyne’s continued excellent form and his commitment to the team, Napoli fans can look forward to more exciting performances from their star midfielder.
