Naples, Italy – Oct 10: Kevin De Bruyne celebrates his third goal for Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Kevin De Bruyne says he isn’t thrilled with Napoli’s new role despite netting two, while Noa Lang seeks a fresh start. ‘I’ve always been a Number 8 or 10.’
The Belgian has struggled to match his Manchester City or international brilliance since arriving at the Maradona stadium over a year ago.
Injuries played part, but today’s deeper slot in a 3‑4‑3 paid off, delivering a 3‑0 win over Frosinone.
De Bruyne struck twice – a penalty and a close‑range finish from a Giovane pull‑back, plus a tap‑in from Lang. It shows his class remains undimmed.
New Napoli role for De Bruyne
‘I’m not emotional, I’m pragmatic,’ he told Sky Sport Italia.
We dominated the first half, but had lapses, especially after the break when our ball retention slipped. In the final 15 minutes, holding the ball kept them off rhythm, an issue we faced early in the second half.
I think we earned the win, created chances and scored, he added.
When asked his preferred spot, De Bruyne hinted the deeper role isn’t his long‑term fix.
‘I’ve always been a Number 8, Number 10. It evolves, but that’s my core. Today they asked me to shift because of midfield injuries,’ he said.
‘Lobotka and Gilmour were on international duty, and after I missed Belgium’s last game, they wanted to rest others with nine fixtures looming.’
‘It’s a packed schedule, so I just try to help. We started the season well, look ahead, and see how the next games unfold,’ De Bruyne concluded.
Lang was set for Man of the Match until De Bruyne’s second strike, but he took it in stride.
‘It doesn’t matter to me; winning is key. He earned it,’ Lang told Sky Sport Italia.
The former PSV winger, once at odds with Antonio Conte, hopes to thrive under Massimiliano Allegri.
‘It was a tough year, but I’m glad to be back. My mind is reset, new coach, new chances – let’s go. This is just the start of a great season, I hope.’