The Champions League group stage kicks off with one of the most intriguing subplots of the season — Kevin De Bruyne returning to the Etihad, but this time in Napoli blue.
After a stunning summer transfer that saw the Belgian maestro leave Manchester City for Serie A, De Bruyne now faces his former club in their opening European clash.
For City supporters, the moment will be bittersweet. Over eight glittering years, De Bruyne became the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s midfield, driving the club to multiple Premier League crowns and delivering their long-awaited Champions League triumph. His unexpected departure in the summer shocked many, but it has set up this early reunion under the lights in Manchester.
For Napoli, his signing is more than just a transfer — it’s a statement of intent. Securing a world-class playmaker of De Bruyne’s caliber signals their ambition to rise among Europe’s elite. And there’s no bigger test than opening their campaign against the very team he once defined.
All eyes will be on De Bruyne: can he haunt his old club on his Champions League debut for Napoli?
📍 Venue: Etihad Stadium
⚽ Fixture: Manchester City vs Napoli
🕗 Kick-off: 8:00 PM BST
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