Did Manchester City Let Kevin De Bruyne Leave Too Soon?

Kevin De Bruyne’s remarkable start at Napoli

Kevin De Bruyne has begun the 2025-26 season in scintillating form, immediately dispelling doubts about his ability to perform at the highest level. Since joining Napoli on a free transfer this summer, the Belgian midfielder has already recorded 11 goal involvements in 12 appearances across club and country, with eight goals and three assists. This represents his best goalscoring start to a season, equalled only by his performances in 2019-20 and 2023-24.

His impact at Napoli has been profound. Despite adapting to a new league and style, De Bruyne has created the second most chances among all Serie A midfielders and has been one of the most prolific shooters on target. His form is a testament to his enduring quality and fitness, which had been questioned during the closing stages of his Manchester City tenure.

Manchester City’s midfield transformation

Manchester City’s midfield landscape has seen significant changes over the past year. Alongside De Bruyne, key players such as Ederson, Jack Grealish, Ilkay Gundogan, and Kyle Walker have departed, signalling a clear squad overhaul. While this regeneration is often necessary, De Bruyne’s exit was met with surprise given his track record—16 trophies and over 400 appearances for City.

City’s current midfielders and wingers have yet to match De Bruyne’s direct contributions this season. Among his compatriots, only Jeremy Doku approaches De Bruyne’s tally for goals and assists. This raises the question: did Pep Guardiola’s side let their midfield maestro leave too soon?

Comparing De Bruyne’s current form with City’s midfield

De Bruyne’s seamless integration into Napoli’s starting eleven—starting five of six Serie A games and coming off the bench in the other—highlights his fitness and importance. In contrast, his last two City seasons saw just 34 Premier League starts, largely due to injuries. Napoli’s faith in him has clearly rejuvenated his career.

City’s mixed start to the campaign—six wins, two draws, and two defeats—suggests the team is still finding its rhythm. Their 4-2 victory over Napoli at the Etihad was a highlight, but De Bruyne’s early exit from that game (just 26 minutes) due to a teammate’s red card prevented a full showcase of his talents against his former club.

De Bruyne’s role in Belgium’s World Cup ambitions

Beyond club football, De Bruyne continues to be a vital figure for Belgium’s national team. Now 34, he remains part of the country’s so-called 'golden generation' and has played in three World Cups. Despite losing the captaincy to Youri Tielemans earlier this season, De Bruyne has responded emphatically, scoring five goals in his first four appearances under new coach Rudi Garcia.

His recent brace against Wales was instrumental in keeping Belgium top of their World Cup qualifying group, putting them on course for a fourth successive tournament appearance. As the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States approaches, De Bruyne’s experience and creativity will be invaluable.

Leadership beyond the armband

Although no longer captain, De Bruyne’s influence remains. Former Belgium manager Roberto Martinez described him as “the most incredible playmaker in world football at this present time.” De Bruyne’s attitude and performances demonstrate a professional committed to his craft, embracing his new role as a bridge between the golden generation and younger talents.

Did Manchester City miss a trick?

Reflecting on De Bruyne’s departure, one wonders if City acted prematurely. His self-assessment in April, acknowledging his readiness to perform at the highest level, was vindicated by his stellar start at Napoli. While teams must evolve, losing a player of De Bruyne’s calibre inevitably impacts squad depth and creativity.

City’s strategy, like other top clubs, involves refreshing squads to maintain competitiveness. However, the current midfield crop’s inability to match De Bruyne’s output raises questions about timing. Perhaps retaining him for another season could have offered Guardiola’s side more stability.

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Conclusion: A bittersweet farewell for City fans

Kevin De Bruyne’s move to Napoli marks a new chapter for one of Europe’s finest midfielders. His free transfer has proven Napoli’s gain and Manchester City’s loss, at least in the short term. With his top form and fitness, De Bruyne is still playing at an elite level, driving both his club and country forward.

For Manchester City supporters, the departure stings, especially as the current squad adjusts. Yet football is ever-evolving, and the focus now is on how City’s rebuild shapes up and whether De Bruyne’s departure ultimately benefits both parties in the long run.

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