“Full agreement reached” – Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has finally made a decision to join Napoli

Kevin De Bruyne, one of Manchester City’s most iconic midfielders of the modern era, is set to close the curtain on his storied career at the Etihad Stadium. After ten unforgettable years in Manchester, the Belgian maestro has reportedly reached a full agreement to join Serie A giants Napoli this summer.

At 33, De Bruyne had been contemplating his future for several months, especially after City’s board opted not to extend his current deal, which expires at the end of the 2024/25 season. Although several clubs had shown interest, including a tempting approach from Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, the midfielder ultimately set his sights on continuing his European adventure.

Sources close to the player confirmed that discussions with Chicago Fire were positive, with De Bruyne impressed by their ambition and the potential of becoming a marquee star in the United States. Yet, the Belgian’s heart was never quite ready to leave European football behind.

In recent weeks, Napoli emerged as the front-runner, overtaking all other suitors in the race for De Bruyne’s signature. The Italian champions made a convincing pitch—not only promising Champions League football but also a central role in their midfield as they aim to build on their domestic dominance.

A full agreement between the player and the Serie A club has now been finalized, and reports suggest that Napoli will officially unveil De Bruyne next week. While the exact financial terms of the deal remain under wraps, the move represents one of the most high-profile transfers in Italy this summer.

One of the key factors influencing De Bruyne’s decision is the presence of Romelu Lukaku at Napoli. The two Belgians have been close friends for years, and their on-field chemistry could become a potent weapon in the Serie A next season. Their reunion could also serve as a beacon for Napoli’s ambitions to compete not just domestically, but across Europe.

Another crucial detail in the saga is De Bruyne’s family. His wife, Michèle Lacroix, reportedly played an instrumental role in the decision-making process. The family has long held a personal connection with Naples, having tied the knot there and spent numerous holidays along the Amalfi Coast.

Belgian journalist Kristof Terreur revealed that Michèle was not only supportive but “eager” about the move. She believes Naples will provide a warmer, more serene environment for their children—who have lived their entire lives in Manchester. The family has already identified a top international school in the city, further solidifying their readiness for the transition.

For De Bruyne, this isn’t just another career move—it’s a lifestyle shift. Leaving Manchester, where he has become a club legend and fan favourite, is not easy. He has won everything there is to win at City: multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, EFL Cups, and most notably, the long-coveted UEFA Champions League.

But as the sun begins to set on his elite playing years, the midfielder is eager for a fresh challenge, and Napoli’s dynamic, attack-minded style offers just that. He believes he still has a few years left at the top, and this new chapter in Italy could allow him to both inspire on the pitch and mentor younger talents coming through the ranks.

Interestingly, insiders had suggested earlier this week that De Bruyne was still considering a stay in the Premier League. However, out of respect for Manchester City and his emotional ties to the club, he ruled out joining any English rivals.

City fans, while understandably emotional, will likely appreciate De Bruyne’s class in handling his departure. Unlike some others before him, the midfielder made it clear that he would not tarnish his legacy by donning the colours of a domestic rival.

At Napoli, De Bruyne will wear the iconic No. 17 shirt—a number that has followed him throughout his career. The club is expected to integrate him immediately into pre-season training, and head coach Francesco Calzona is already preparing tactical adjustments to maximize the Belgian’s vision and passing range.

If De Bruyne can stay fit and perform at even 80% of his peak level, he has the potential to redefine the midfield landscape in Italy. His intelligence, composure, and ability to dictate games could be exactly what Napoli needs to take the next step in Europe.

Should he help Napoli retain the Scudetto or make a deep Champions League run, De Bruyne’s decision to move to Naples will be viewed not only as a smart career choice but also as a legacy-defining move. He would be immortalized as a legend in two major European leagues—a rare feat for any footballer.

As the football world awaits the official unveiling, there’s a quiet sense of excitement brewing in Naples. The arrival of Kevin De Bruyne doesn’t just bring world-class quality—it brings global attention, title aspirations, and a renewed sense of purpose to a club with rich history and passionate supporters.

For Manchester City, the departure of De Bruyne will mark the end of an era. But for Napoli, it is the beginning of something extraordinary.