Kevin De Bruyne is set to make a significant impact in Italian football in 2026-27, according to Inter defender Manuel Akanji.

What happened to De Bruyne in his first season?

De Bruyne was unlucky in his first season at Napoli due to an injury that kept him out for a long time.

Why it matters for Kevin De Bruyne

Akanji believes De Bruyne can still have a significant impact in Italian football, citing his extraordinary playing ability and their friendship.

On May 02, 2026, De Bruyne played for Napoli in a Serie A match against Como 1907.

What comes next for Napoli?

Napoli are waiting for Massimiliano Allegri to be released from Milan before starting his tenure at the Stadio Maradona, with Allegri still under contract with the Rossoneri.

De Bruyne caused outrage in Italy a few weeks ago when he said he was happy Antonio Conte had left Napoli.

Akanji would like to face Belgium and play against De Bruyne, as it hasn’t happened often so far.

The Italian tactician’s assistant Cristian Stellini hit back at De Bruyne, saying that the Belgian had never shown enthusiasm during his first season at the Stadio Maradona.

On October 25, 2025, De Bruyne battled for possession with Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale during a Serie A match.

Manuel Akanji, the Inter centre-back, spoke about his former Manchester City teammate De Bruyne during his latest interview with Gazzetta.

De Bruyne's injury kept him out for a long time, and when he returned, the title race was already decided.

Akanji thinks De Bruyne can still have a significant impact in Italian football, absolutely, given his extraordinary playing ability.

Napoli have reached an agreement with Allegri, but are waiting for him to terminate his contract with the Rossoneri.

The Belgian was unhappy with the departure of Antonio Conte, which caused a stir in Italy.

De Bruyne's first season at Napoli was marked by injury and an early end to the title race.

Akanji and De Bruyne were teammates at Manchester City, and Akanji considers De Bruyne a great friend.

The wait for Allegri to join Napoli continues, with the Italian coach still under contract with Milan.

De Bruyne's comments about Conte's departure sparked a reaction from Cristian Stellini, who questioned De Bruyne's enthusiasm during his first season.

The 2026-27 season is set to be an important one for De Bruyne, as he aims to make a significant impact in Italian football.

De Bruyne's injury was a significant setback, but Akanji believes he can still make a difference.

The friendship between Akanji and De Bruyne is well-documented, and Akanji is eager to face him on the pitch.

Napoli's wait for Allegri continues, with the club eager to start his tenure at the Stadio Maradona.

De Bruyne's comments about Conte sparked a reaction, but Akanji is confident in De Bruyne's ability.

The 2026-27 season will be an important one for De Bruyne, as he aims to prove himself in Italian football.