Napoli’s De Bruyne defends performances after Arsenal loss: ‘This is the real De Bruyne’

Napoli’s De Bruyne defends performances after Arsenal loss: ‘This is the real De Bruyne’ Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne hit back at local media criticisms regarding his physical condition following the Partenopei’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in their Champions League opener at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Tuesday night. Massimiliano Allegri handed the Belgian playmaker a starting berth in a grueling European clash where Napoli were forced to defend deep for long stretches. Despite the defeat , the former Manchester City star created the hosts’ clearest opening in the closing minutes, nearly picking out Lorenzo Lucca with a precise pass across the face of goal that ultimately went begging. However, speaking to Prime Video after the final whistle, with quotes via Fanpage , De Bruyne grew visibly irritated when questioned on how far away he was from reaching his optimal sharpness. NAPLES, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 09: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli is challenged by Declan Rice of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between SSC Napoli and Arsenal FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on September 09, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images) De Bruyne: ‘I don’t know what you expect from me’ “This is the real De Bruyne,” the Belgian playmaker retorted. “I don’t know what you expect from me, but I think I played a good game. I feel fine. I know that in Italy people talk a lot about physical fitness, but I’ve been feeling good right from the very first moment.” The Belgian’s sharp response comes after a turbulent start to life in Serie A, having previously endured a strained dynamic under former manager Antonio Conte. Under Allegri, however, the midfielder feels a far better understanding has been established. “My relationship with Allegri is going very well, he is a bit calmer and more relaxed,” De Bruyne explained when asked about the managerial transition. “When he speaks to me, he speaks in Italian, not in English.”