De Bruyne lands in Italy, greeted by Napoli fans before medical exams. Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne arrived in Rome on the morning of June 12, 2025, to undergo medical examinations at Villa Stuart hospital, a final step before signing with Napoli, the reigning Italian champions. Welcomed by dozens of fans at Rome’s International Airport and the hospital entrance, the 33-year-old is set to complete his free transfer following the end of his Manchester City contract. After the exams, he is expected to travel to Naples for his official presentation. The enthusiastic reception underscores the excitement surrounding the arrival of one of football’s top midfielders.
The move to Italy marks a new chapter for De Bruyne, who left Manchester City after a decade of achievements. Napoli’s signing comes as the club aims to maintain its dominance in Serie A.
- Key details of the arrival:
- De Bruyne landed at 7 a.m. local time in Rome.
- Fans chanted Napoli anthems and waved flags at the hospital.
- The player is expected to sign a contract until 2027.
The medical exams are a standard procedure for European football transfers, ensuring the player’s fitness for the upcoming season. Napoli’s passionate fanbase is already buzzing with anticipation for De Bruyne’s debut.
Warm welcome in Rome
De Bruyne’s arrival at Villa Stuart hospital sparked scenes of fervor. Dozens of Napoli supporters gathered outside, singing club songs and holding banners with the player’s name. Accompanied by security and club officials, the Belgian waved to fans before entering for his exams. The reception mirrored that of his compatriot Romelu Lukaku, who underwent medicals at the same hospital in 2023 upon joining Napoli.
At Rome’s airport, De Bruyne was mobbed by fans shortly after landing. Videos shared by supporters captured the chaotic yet joyful atmosphere. Local media closely followed his movements, highlighting the significance of his arrival. The midfielder, visibly moved by the warm welcome, acknowledged fans with subtle gestures.
Napoli’s acquisition of De Bruyne is a major coup. The club, which won Serie A in 2022/23, sees the Belgian as a key piece to bolster its squad for domestic and European competitions.
Legacy at Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne departs Manchester City as one of the club’s greatest-ever players. Over ten years, he played 422 matches, scoring 108 goals and providing 168 assists. His trophy haul includes:
- 1 Champions League (2022/23);
- 1 Club World Cup (2023);
- 6 Premier League titles;
- 2 FA Cups;
- 5 EFL Cups;
- 3 Community Shields.
In April 2025, De Bruyne announced he would not renew his contract, set to expire in June. His decision to skip the Club World Cup in the United States signaled his imminent move. Known for his vision, precise passing, and game-changing ability, he was a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s system. A tribute during his final home game at the Etihad Stadium left fans emotional.
New chapter with Napoli
De Bruyne’s transfer to Napoli is a free signing, as his Manchester City contract ended. The Italian club, which tracked the midfielder for months, finalized the deal swiftly. The contract is expected to run until 2027, with an option for an additional year.
Napoli plans to deploy De Bruyne’s experience to anchor the midfield alongside stars like Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. His arrival strengthens the team for the 2025/26 season, with goals of defending their Serie A title and progressing in the Champions League.
The club is organizing a grand unveiling at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in the coming days, following the medicals and contract signing. Fans are expected to turn out in droves.
Medical exams at Villa Stuart
Villa Stuart hospital in Rome is a premier medical facility frequently used by Italian clubs for player evaluations. De Bruyne underwent a battery of tests, including cardiovascular, orthopedic, and endurance assessments. The exams began at 8 a.m. and are expected to conclude by early afternoon.
Crowds outside the hospital did not disrupt the schedule, according to medical staff. Once cleared, De Bruyne will fly to Naples to finalize his transfer. The choice of Villa Stuart aligns with Napoli’s tradition of conducting medicals in Rome for major signings.
Napoli fans’ excitement
Napoli supporters are ecstatic about De Bruyne’s arrival. Social media is abuzz with videos of his airport and hospital receptions, amassing thousands of views. Fans praise his technical brilliance and potential to elevate the team.
The club boasts one of Italy’s most fervent fanbases, and De Bruyne’s signing has reignited hopes of sustained success. Despite an inconsistent last season, the 2022/23 title keeps spirits high.
- Reasons for fan enthusiasm:
- De Bruyne’s experience in European competitions.
- His track record of assists and clutch goals.
- Fit with Napoli’s attacking style.
Belgian connection at Napoli
De Bruyne’s signing strengthens Napoli’s ties to Belgian players. Romelu Lukaku, who joined in 2023, received a similar welcome at Villa Stuart. Both players, who featured together for Belgium in the latest FIFA international break, share a close bond and are expected to shine in Naples.
Dries Mertens, another Belgian, is a Napoli legend, holding the club’s all-time scoring record with 148 goals from 2013 to 2022. Fans hope De Bruyne can replicate such impact.
Season preparations
Napoli’s pre-season begins in July, with friendlies scheduled in Italy and abroad. De Bruyne is set to join the squad after his unveiling. The team’s coach has praised the Belgian’s versatility, though the starting lineup remains unconfirmed.
Serie A 2025/26 kicks off in August, with Napoli facing Juventus in the opening round. De Bruyne’s presence could prove decisive against top rivals. The club is also in the Champions League group stage, aiming for the knockout rounds.
Strategic move to Serie A
Serie A has increasingly attracted global stars, and De Bruyne’s arrival continues this trend. The league, home to players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović in recent years, gains further prestige with the Belgian.
Napoli’s smart recruitment and financial management have made it a model club. Signing De Bruyne for free allows investment in other areas, such as extending contracts for young talents.
Transfer timeline
- June 12: De Bruyne arrives in Rome for medicals.
- June 13: Travels to Naples for contract signing.
- June 14 or 15: Official presentation at Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.
- July: Pre-season training begins.
De Bruyne’s move signals a fresh start for both player and club. His Serie A debut is anticipated for the league opener, though friendlies may offer an earlier glimpse.