Kevin De Bruyne will return to Napoli with a timely reminder of the influence he can still bring to a season. The Belgian playmaker struck twice against Turkey in the Nations League, producing an authoritative international performance as he prepares to rejoin Massimiliano Allegri’s squad in Italy.
A productive international evening
- De Bruyne featured for Belgium against Turkey in the Nations League.
- The former Manchester City midfielder scored two goals and supplied a series of high-quality moments in possession.
- After the match, he reflected on his place in Mark van Bommel’s Belgium side and his own physical condition.
For Napoli, the display arrives at a useful point in the campaign. De Bruyne’s return to the Maradona is being awaited with considerable interest, particularly after an international outing in which he appeared sharp, involved and decisive in the final third.
De Bruyne welcomes Van Bommel’s approach
The 34-year-old said Van Bommel’s more proactive football suits his qualities. “I think his style fits me better, because it is attacking football,” De Bruyne said.
He also pointed to the energy around him in the national side as a factor in his recent form. “The players are energetic and that helps me, but physically I simply feel better than I did last year.”
De Bruyne did not dwell on outside scrutiny, insisting that his own standards remain the main measure. “Criticism does not concern me. I am demanding enough with myself,” he said.
He acknowledged that time has changed his game, while maintaining that he still feels capable of carrying a meaningful responsibility for his teams. “Of course, it is not the same as it was 10 years ago, but I still enjoy playing and I believe I can help the side. That is what matters most.”
Napoli will now hope that Belgium’s international break has reinforced rather than interrupted De Bruyne’s rhythm. His two-goal evening has offered Allegri another encouraging sign before the midfielder resumes his work in Serie A.
