'Very humble' Kevin De Bruyne catches Napoli by surprise as fellow new signing reveals shock at character

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New Napoli signing Sam Beukema heaped praise on team-mate Kevin De Bruyne as the defender claimed that he was left "surprised" by the Manchester City legend's humility. De Bruyne, who left City after 10 years this summer to join Napoli on a free transfer, has made a bright start to his life in Italy as he has already scored two goals in five appearances for his club, across all competitions.

Beukema surprised by De Bruyne's humility

Like De Bruyne, Beukema switched to Napoli during the summer transfer window from Bologna on a five-year deal. The Dutch centre-back is loving his life in Naples and has already made some close friends in Belgian duo Romelu Lukaku and De Bruyne. The 26-year-old spoke highly of the two senior players' character, while claiming he was surprised by their "humility".  

ACF Fiorentina v SSC Napoli - Serie A

"They surprised me a bit"

In an interview with Serie A, Beukema said: "They are two high-level players. They surprised me a bit, because they are very humble. We have joked many times together, and they’ve helped me settle into the group. Lukaku has been here for one year already. I’m so happy to be here with them and face them in training sessions. I can’t wait to continue with them." 

De Bruyne backed to guide Napoli to back-to-back Serie A titles

Former Italy international Paolo Di Canio has backed De Bruyne and Manchester United loanee Rasmus Hojlund to shine for Napoli and help Antonio Conte's side win their second consecutive Serie A title in the 2025-26 campaign. Di Canio also praised the club for their impressive transfer activities during the summer.    

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Busy schedule awaits Conte's side

Conte's side are currently in action against AC Milan in the Serie A. They will next host Sporting CP in a Champions League clash on Wednesday, before taking on Genoa in the Serie A again on October 5.