De Bruyne remains part of Napoli's current project
Napoli director Giovanni Manna has insisted Kevin De Bruyne is part of the club's current project despite his criticism of Antonio Conte's tactics last term.
De Bruyne joined Napoli as a free agent at the beginning of the 2025-2026 season, but missed a large part of the season through injury as Napoli finished second in Serie A.
Ahead of the 2026-2027 campaign, Conte has been replaced as head coach by Massimiliano Allegri.
De Bruyne was previously critical of Conte's defensive tactics, stating they had "different visions of football" and he was happy to see the Italian coach leave.
Despite the comments, Manna claimed De Bruyne will remain at Napoli; he has a year left on his deal with an option for an additional 12 months.
"De Bruyne signed a two-year contract with an option for a third, so I don't see why we need to keep asking what he'll decide," Manna said.
"When players sign contracts, they sign. Then the club decides what to do.
"I did not appreciate some of his words, but there鈥檚 no problem.
"Kevin doesn鈥檛 have to decide if he鈥檚 staying or leaving, he is part of the project and will put himself at the disposal of the coach, just like all the other players.
"Lukaku is on vacation, coming off a good World Cup, so we鈥檒l see when he returns. De Bruyne has no decision to make. He was useful to the team last season until his injury, now he is a Napoli player.
"He has not yet spoken to Allegri, we await him at pre-season training. He was an important investment for us, and delivered less than his potential, but is still part of the project."
