De Bruyne slams Conte’s 'defensive' tactics and reveals Napoli exit talk

Kevin De Bruyne has cast significant doubt over his future at Napoli, delivering a scathing assessment of his relationship with former manager Antonio Conte. Admitting a total clash of philosophies, the midfielder candidly stated: “We have very different visions of football. I’m happy he left.”

The former Manchester City icon arrived at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona as a free agent last summer. However, his tenure in Naples was quickly derailed by a severe thigh injury in October, sidelining him until March. Despite the setback, the Belgian international managed 21 appearances, contributing five goals and four assists, though he never appeared comfortable under Conte’s rigid leadership.

Speaking to *Het Nieuwsblad* ahead of the World Cup, De Bruyne laid bare the friction within the dressing room. “It was difficult for me because Conte’s vision is the polar opposite of mine,” he explained. “In truth, I never had the opportunity to play in my preferred position. Regardless, I always tried to give my all for the collective.”

De Bruyne’s primary frustrations centered on Conte’s pragmatic, often stifling tactical approach. “We played very defensively,” he noted. “When you attempt to win every match by a single goal using a 4-5-1 formation, you are committing to a specific, limiting brand of football. At the start of the campaign, we sat even deeper. Our striker scored only ten goals, with statistics like that, you know the football isn't where it should be.”

When asked if he was relieved by Conte's departure from the club, De Bruyne offered a blunt confirmation. “For me, yes. He was under no obligation to stay as far as I am concerned. There were promises made last summer regarding our style of play, but ultimately, very little materialized. I found it a pity. Football should be enjoyable, and unfortunately, that element was lacking. There is no point beating around the bush; I never got to play my game under Conte.”

Despite the manager’s exit, De Bruyne’s long-term commitment to Napoli remains fragile. “I have one year left on my contract, but I want to discuss it,” he admitted. “There was a lot of talk last year about our direction and identity, yet none of it came to fruition.”

With rumors suggesting that Max Allegri, a coach known for an even more defensive disposition than Conte, is the frontrunner for the Napoli vacancy, De Bruyne’s time in Italy may be drawing to an abrupt close.