De Bruyne: I will always be from Manchester City, I can show my strength in Naples

July 20th De Bruyne talked about why he chose to play in Serie A and other topics in an interview after joining Naples.

Regarding the reasons for choosing Naples and how I feel at this moment, I came here because the club Naples is very competitive and I can show my strength here. I am very excited about this new journey and I still have the motivation and ability to stay competitive at this level. I was deeply impressed by the Naples plan and I was very satisfied with my choice. I'm joining a strong team and we hope to achieve good results in all competitions next season, which is a brand new experience for me. I know that this is different from the Premier League, and I need to adapt to the team and the Serie A, (Serie A is a highly competitive league with many excellent teams), but I have confidence in myself and look forward to making a appearance.

I spent most of my career in England, I was always a Manchester City man, but now it’s time to face new challenges, and playing in Serie A means I can keep myself at a high level of competitive form. I've received many different invitations, but the overall planning of Naples was the best choice for me. They are already the champions and are constantly strengthening their lineup.

I am no longer the youngest player, but I still have the ability to contribute to the team, I can help my teammates, and I can learn new things myself, such as new tactical styles. I think I can still maintain a good competitive state. Maybe one day I will feel overwhelmed, but now at 34, I am still capable of my job and I will prove this on the court. It is an honor to join the team that Diego Maradona has played for, but I don't think it will bring additional pressure. The pressure exists to play for the wealthy team because the team is determined to win the championship. Maradona is legendary, but I have my own style and I will do my best to bring joy to the city and fans of Naples.

Did your relationship with Lukaku affect your decision to join Naples?

I talked to Lukaku and Mertens, and learned about the city, club and related operations through them, but in the end, (joining Naples) this was a decision made by my wife and children. I have known Lukaku since he was 13 years old. We are close friends. He will help me adapt to the new environment. He can help me translate and help me understand Italian football better.

Do you think there are any similarities between Guardiola and Conte?

I know Coach Conte, who has coached Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, his tactical system is different from Guardiola, but in the past decade, he has been one of the best coaches in Italy and even Europe. It is a great opportunity for me to work with a coach of his level. I am currently very dedicated in training and expect to reach my best in five to six weeks.

What is your favorite position on the field? The position itself is not important, the key is how you understand the game and judge the situation on the field. Modern football is dynamic, and the formation will change according to the situation of the ball-controlling party and the defense party. You must have the ability to attack and defensively interpret the game continuously.