With latest experiences claiming that , questions are rising over how Antonio Conte—or one other incoming coach—would possibly deploy the Belgian worldwide in a midfield that already contains Scott McTominay.
The previous Manchester United participant has been the undisputed standout in Napoli’s midfield this season, enjoying a pivotal position within the crew’s attacking output with —only one fewer than Romelu Lukaku.
epa12016577 Napoli’s Frank Anguissa (L) celebrates along with his teammate Scott McTominay after scoring the 0-1 aim in the course of the Italian Serie A soccer match between Bologna FC and SSC Napoli, in Bologna, Italy, 07 April 2025. EPA-EFE/SERENA CAMPANINI
Integrating De Bruyne into Napoli’s system would inevitably alter the midfield dynamics, given the Belgian’s famend attacking instincts and his potential to hyperlink up seamlessly with the ahead line.
Can De Bruyne and McTominay coexist at Napoli?
Napoli’s present midfield setup contains two equally very important figures: Stanislav Lobotka and Zambo Anguissa.
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Whereas the Slovakian primarily dictates the tempo within the build-up section, Anguissa has helped create a well-oiled partnership with McTominay, because the pair alternate between deep-lying duties and ahead runs, utilizing their physicality to problem opposition defences.
Assuming Napoli retain all of their present midfielders, it’s not straightforward to see the place De Bruyne would naturally slot in.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester Metropolis appears on in the course of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off first leg match between Manchester Metropolis and Actual Madrid C.F. at Manchester Metropolis Stadium on February 11, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Picture by Michael Regan/Getty Photos)
Large roles in formations just like the 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 appear much less appropriate for a participant previous his bodily peak, who could not possess the tempo to make a constant affect in these areas.
Conversely, the 33-year-old might be a great match as a hyperlink between midfield and assault in Conte’s trademark 3-5-2 system—both enjoying off a central striker or working in a free position round him—although the coach has experimented with completely different shapes this season.
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The equation would change if Napoli determined to promote Anguissa, which might open up area within the present setup. This might see McTominay transfer right into a deep-lying playmaker position alongside Lobotka, with De Bruyne deployed as a trequartista—arguably his most pure place.
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 27: Scott McTominay of Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first aim in the course of the Serie A match between Napoli and Torino at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 27, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Picture by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Photos)
Even in that situation, the Scottish midfielder may proceed to showcase his box-to-box qualities, making well timed attacking runs whereas offering a bodily presence in aerial duels and midfield battles.
It’s tougher to think about McTominay and De Bruyne coexisting in a 4-3-3, because the Belgian would wrestle to supply the defensive protection required from a central midfielder in such a system, doubtlessly exposing Napoli’s steadiness.
Along with his contract expiring on the finish of the season, De Bruyne has already obtained a suggestion from MLS aspect Chicago Hearth and is predicted to draw additional curiosity as his Manchester Metropolis chapter attracts to a detailed.