SpotlightFootball ItaliaUnverified source· 10 Sept 2026
De Bruyne fires back at fitness critics after Arsenal loss
The Napoli playmaker insists he's already at his best, brushing off questions about his physical sharpness.
K. De Bruyne
player
Club
Napoli
Position
Midfielder
Nationality
Belgian
Result
1-0 loss to Arsenal
What happened. Kevin De Bruyne pushed back at local media criticism of his physical condition after Napoli's 1-0 Champions League defeat to Arsenal. He told Prime Video he felt fine and had been feeling good from the start.
- De Bruyne started the Champions League opener under Massimiliano Allegri.
- He created Napoli's clearest chance, nearly setting up Lorenzo Lucca.
- He says his relationship with Allegri is going very well.
“This is the real De Bruyne. I don't know what you expect from me, but I think I played a good game.”
— Kevin De Bruyne
De Bruyne's form and fitness will stay under the microscope as Napoli look to bounce back in Serie A and Europe.
In this story
NapoliMore to read
Football Italia
De Bruyne claims he didn’t try to leave Napoli, but admits ‘a rough start to the season’
Football Italia
De Bruyne injury scare mars Napoli win over Bologna
GiveMeSport
Kevin De Bruyne Names Premier League Star He Wants at Napoli
Football Italia
De Bruyne: ‘I hope for injury-free season and enjoy football at Napoli’
