Kevin De Bruyne opens up about the tactical differences between Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte as he embarks on a new chapter with Napoli, while dismissing the “king” label and focusing on his football.
What Happened?
Kevin De Bruyne, the Belgian playmaker, has made the move from Manchester City to Napoli on a free transfer this summer. After just a few friendly appearances for Napoli, De Bruyne has already shared his insights into the contrasting coaching styles of Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte.
De Bruyne, who spent eight successful years under Guardiola at City, winning multiple Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League, reflected on his time with both managers. He noted key differences in their playing philosophies, particularly regarding how they approach the game tactically.
The Key Differences
In an interview with Corriere dello Sport, De Bruyne stated: “I’d say they’re two different ways of playing: Pep is probably a little more focused on ball control and possession, while Conte is a little more structured in his game and focuses a lot on mentality.” He continued by adding that Guardiola emphasizes zonal play and fluidity, while Conte prioritizes discipline and mental toughness. These contrasting approaches provide De Bruyne with a unique opportunity to broaden his tactical understanding in Serie A.
The “King” Label
Upon his arrival at Napoli, some fans and media outlets began to dub De Bruyne “the king” of Serie A, given his stature in world football. However, De Bruyne was quick to downplay this notion. “I’m not the king, I’m just a footballer,” he responded. “I don’t pay much attention to certain things, I try to do my job as best I can, but obviously it’s nice to be appreciated.” De Bruyne stressed that his focus remains on continuing his successful career and contributing to his new team.
What’s Next for De Bruyne and Napoli?
De Bruyne will soon make his official debut in Serie A and has set his sights on helping Napoli secure the Scudetto this season. Additionally, the seasoned playmaker is eyeing a potential Champions League run under Conte’s guidance, with the hope of continuing to add trophies to his illustrious career.
