Napoli lock in De Bruyne for another season amid MLS chase

Report: Napoli have secured Kevin De Bruyne for at least another Serie A season, easing speculation after weeks of MLS interest and confirming the Belgian midfielder will remain in Italy for 2026‑27. The decision, made with his family, was reported in Belgium on April 18, 2026, during a match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Kevin De Bruyne told his family he would stay at SSC Napoli for at least one more season, according to reports in Belgium. The announcement came despite documented interest from Major League Soccer clubs such as Chicago Fire, San Diego FC and Inter Miami.

His debut Serie A campaign was disrupted by a serious injury, which fueled doubts about the tactics of coach Antonio Conte. Those doubts contributed to expectations that the veteran might seek a new environment.

When Max Allegri replaced Conte, his even more negative general approach reinforced speculation about De Bruyne’s future. Nevertheless, the player chose to remain, countering predictions of a different experience.

Kevin de Bruyne’s jet returns him to Balearics after Napoli centenary

De Bruyne has repeatedly cited the draw of Naples, the city by the sea, as a key factor in his original move from Manchester City. He married in the area and frequently returns on family vacations, reinforcing his personal connection to the region.

SSC Napoli clarified that De Bruyne is under contract, leaving the club with no decisions to make regarding his future. The club’s statement underscored that the player’s status is settled for the upcoming season.

A photograph by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images captured De Bruyne during the Serie A clash between SSC Napoli and SS Lazio at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 18, 2026. Earlier, on April 6, 2026, another image showed him battling for possession with Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan at the same venue. The images were taken in NAPLES, ITALY, during the match.

The decision ends months of transfer speculation and allows Napoli to plan their squad without the uncertainty of a summer departure.