The UEFA Champions League clash between Man City vs Napoli is shaping up to be one of the standout fixtures of the season, with Kevin De Bruyne set for an emotional return to the Etihad Stadium.
The Belgian playmaker, who spent a decade at Manchester City, will once again step onto the Etihad pitch—this time as a Napoli player.
For City fans, his presence will stir a mixture of nostalgia and unease, given the brilliance he brought to the club and the threat he still poses in European football.
De Bruyne, widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, turned Manchester City into a dominant force both domestically and across Europe.
His vision, creativity, and leadership helped Pep Guardiola’s side secure multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and, eventually, the long-awaited Champions League trophy.
For supporters, his departure earlier this year marked the end of an era.
After leaving City, De Bruyne joined Napoli on a free transfer during the last transfer window, surprising many who expected him to either retire at the Etihad or seek a move outside Europe.
Instead, he chose the Italian club Napoli, adding more firepower and experience to their midfield.
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That decision has now set up this dramatic reunion, with the fixture guaranteeing high levels of anticipation across the football world.
“City is my club, that’ll never change” – De Bruyne on facing his old team
Speaking ahead of Belgium’s FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Kazakhstan, De Bruyne admitted that it would feel “strange” to line up against his former teammates.
The midfielder reflected on his bond with Manchester City and hinted that he had long expected a reunion in the Champions League.
“Last year, I predicted that if I stayed in Europe, I would return to (Manchester) City in the Champions League,” De Bruyne told reporters, as quoted by Italian outlet Il Napolista and translated by Football Italia.
“I know it will be strange. City is my club and that will never change.”
Those words underline the deep connection between De Bruyne and the Etihad faithful. Although he will wear Napoli’s blue shirt next week, many City fans still view him as one of their own.
The Belgian is likely to receive a warm reception before kick-off, even as he seeks to spoil the evening for his old supporters.
Tough run of fixtures awaits Guardiola’s side
While the spotlight will inevitably be on De Bruyne’s return, the Man City vs Napoli showdown is just one part of a challenging schedule for the reigning Premier League champions.
After the international break, Manchester City will face three heavyweight fixtures in the space of a single week.
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First up is a Manchester derby at the Etihad against rivals United, a fixture that always carries intense pressure regardless of league standings.
Guardiola’s men will take on Napoli in what could be a defining Champions League group match. That is followed by a trip to the Emirates to face Arsenal, another title contender.
City have endured a mixed start to the season, struggling with consistency and injuries to key players.
