Kevin De Bruyne gets Maradona comparison after Napoli dominance
Kevin De Bruyne left an indelible mark on Napoli’s 3‑0‑victory over Frosinone on Sunday, with two goals and dominant game control, after which the Italian press even mentioned the name of Diego Maradona. The Belgian, who was in the starting lineup immediately after his international duties, was praised by the press as the Red Devil.
Dominant performance and praising press
The De Bruyne show started immediately: he was in midfield from the kickoff, set the tempo and scored twice, giving Napoli early control of the game. His presence was crucial, especially since he had just returned from the Red Devil’s international duties.
In the first half Napoli were awarded a penalty. De Bruyne initially let Rasmus Højlund take it, but when the goalkeeper saved the attempt, the Dane took the retake himself and put the ball in the net. Eurosport Italy praised this gesture as ‘generous’ and emphasized how De Bruyne controlled the rhythm of the match.
La Repubblica gave him a 7.5 out of 10 and labelled him a ‘complete’ player, while Goal.com Italy and SportMediaset even awarded an 8. Both media highlighted his work across the entire pitch: he regularly dropped into defence without losing his attacking productivity, and he was at the heart of the move that saw Noa Lang score the second goal.
Allegri praises King Kev for two goals, still sees room for Noa Lang
Maradona comparison and growth at Napoli
Corriere della Sera, impressed by the 35‑year‑old Belgian, spoke of a ‘return in Maradona style’, a comparison that in Napoli – where Diego Maradona is still revered as a god – is not taken lightly. The newspaper praised De Bruyne’s personality, his ability to take responsibility and to guide his teammates when Napoli needed it.
The Italian press also emphasized how De Bruyne made the game simpler and more fluid, with passes that allowed the build‑up from the back to flow smoothly. His vision enabled Napoli to get the ball into dangerous positions without needing too much individual initiative, a quality that La Repubblica considered essential for a ‘complete’ player.
Since his move from Manchester City to Napoli in 2025, the Red Devil seems to be finding his place ever more; his double against Frosinone was already the second in eight days, after he scored twice for the Red Devil against Turkey. Allegri has even opened a superlative pot for King Kev, while he scrutinises Noa Lang. This succession of goals underscores both his impact at club level and his form with the national team.
Allegri transforms Napoli with De Bruyne, ignites the revolution
The contrasts between a modern, versatile midfielder and the legendary Maradona comparison show how De Bruyne combines technical class with leadership, and confirm that his role at Napoli is increasingly standing the test of time.