Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne moved to put an end to the controversy that erupted last weekend after his visible frustration when being substituted during Napoli’s 2-1 defeat to AC Milan. The midfielder, who joined this season from Manchester City, made it clear that there is no conflict with his coach, Antonio Conte, and that his reaction was purely out of frustration with the result.

Conte sends a clear message

The incident occurred in the 72nd minute of the Serie A clash at San Siro, when Conte decided to take De Bruyne off at a delicate point in the match. Cameras captured the Belgian’s displeasure, sparking rumors of a potential rift between the two. After the game, the Italian coach was blunt: “I hope he was upset about the score, because if it was for something else, then he picked the wrong person. Here everyone must adopt certain behaviors.”

The statement was widely interpreted as a warning to his star, though Conte quickly clarified a few days later: “I have nothing to reproach Kevin for; he’s a serious, hardworking professional. I understand everyone wants to play, but I also want to win, and my decisions are always made in the team’s best interest.”

De Bruyne answers on the pitch

Rather than fuel the controversy, De Bruyne responded where it matters most. Just days later in the Champions League, he inspired Napoli’s 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon, providing two assists for Rasmus Hojlund. With that, the Belgian became just the sixth player in the competition’s history to record multiple assists in at least five different matches, joining an elite group that includes Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane.

After the match, the midfielder dismissed any lingering doubts: “There’s no problem with Conte. I’m competitive, I want to make a difference, and I enjoy playing. A lot has been said, but the truth is I just want to have fun on the pitch.”

A key match on the horizon

With three goals and two assists so far this season, De Bruyne remains as ambitious as ever and will look to shine again when Napoli host Genoa this Sunday. It will be a crucial fixture for Conte’s side, who want to head into the international break without dropping points in Serie A.

The episode against AC Milan now seems to be behind them, but it highlights the intensity with which both coach and player approach every game. The relationship between De Bruyne and Conte looks set to be pivotal for Napoli’s ambitions in both Italy and Europe.