Kevin De Bruyne loses on Napoli debut to third-division side as life after Man City begins with shock defeat

Manchester City FC v AFC Bournemouth - Premier League

Kevin De Bruyne’s much-anticipated first appearance for Napoli ended in disappointment as the reigning Serie A titleholders suffered an unexpected 2-0 defeat to third-division club Arezzo in a pre-season friendly. The Belgian midfielder, who recently joined from Manchester City, was handed a starting role by manager Antonio Conte, but the night didn’t unfold as planned for the star-studded Italian side.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Tuscan side struck twice, once late in each half, to secure a remarkable win over their illustrious opponents. The opening goal arrived just before halftime, catching Napoli off guard after an otherwise comfortable 45 minutes. Then, deep into stoppage time, Arezzo’s Varela doubled the advantage to seal a famous result.

Monza v Napoli - Serie A

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Notably absent from the squad were Scott McTominay and Matteo Politano. Both players were ruled out due to muscle fatigue, as confirmed by Sky Sport Italia. The pair have reportedly been managing minor strains caused by the intense physical demands of Conte’s pre-season sessions.

DID YOU KNOW?

Arezzo’s goalkeeper, Luca Trombini, was the standout performer on the night, denying Napoli repeatedly with a string of excellent saves. The best chance for the Neapolitans came midway through the second half when Brazilian winger David Neres unleashed a powerful effort that struck the post. Even after Conte made wholesale changes in the final stretch of the game, Napoli continued to push forward aggressively. But the breakthrough never came, with Trombini keeping his clean sheet intact and earning plaudits for his shot-stopping heroics.

Kevin De Bruyne Napoli 2025

WHAT NEXT FOR NAPOLI?

Napoli’s pre-season continues with another friendly scheduled against Serie B outfit Catanzaro on July 26. The fixture provides Conte and his players another opportunity to iron out tactical wrinkles and regain momentum before the competitive season begins. Their title defence begins with a trip to Sassuolo on August 23.