Napoli doubts Kevin De Bruyne despite many minutes on the pitch

While Kevin De Bruyne at Napoli is again regularly in the starting lineup, uncertainty about his future is growing in Italy. The Red Devil gets plenty of playing minutes, but contractual uncertainty and the high expectations surrounding his arrival already make a departure after this season a topic of discussion.

Contract and expectations

The 35‑year‑old Red Devil arrived in the summer of 2025 on a free transfer from Manchester City. His contract runs, according to earlier reports, until June 2027, with an option for another season. Tuttosport, however, reports that Napoli currently does not intend to continue the partnership after this season.

The Italian sports newspaper writes that his performances so far do not meet the high expectations that accompanied his arrival. Therefore, a possible departure is being discussed early in the season, although the situation could still change during the ongoing campaign.

Playing minutes and recent form

De Bruyne began his second season in Naples with one goal and one assist in five competitive matches, in which he accumulated 263 minutes. He was in the starting lineup against Bologna and Fiorentina and played the full match against Arsenal in the Champions League.

Bruyne's first competitive goal of the season came on opening day against Genoa, but after that the goal output dried up. Initially used as a substitute, he has received more playing minutes in recent weeks under Massimiliano Allegri, including ninety minutes against Fiorentina.

Kevin emphasized at the Red Devil that he feels physically and mentally good. He indicated that stopping is not currently on his agenda, as long as motivation and the level are present.

Whether he will still be wearing Napoli's shirt after this season remains a story to follow. For now, it is only the Italian reporting that suggests a departure, without official confirmation.