Kevin De Bruyne Undecided on Napoli Future After MLS Interest

The Belgian midfielder has yet to commit beyond his current contract with the Italian club.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:39am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a soccer player, likely Kevin De Bruyne, in various overlapping perspectives and geometric shapes, conveying the dynamic and uncertain nature of his future career decisions.The future of Belgian soccer legend Kevin De Bruyne remains uncertain as his Napoli contract nears its end, leaving the door open for a potential move to MLS.San Diego Today

Kevin De Bruyne, the Belgian soccer legend, has admitted he is unsure about his future beyond his current contract with Napoli. De Bruyne, who is 34 years old, was previously a target for several MLS clubs when his deal with Manchester City expired in 2024, but ultimately chose to sign with the Italian club. Now with over a year left on his Napoli contract, De Bruyne has left the door open for a potential move, including a possible return to North America to play in MLS.

Why it matters

De Bruyne's future decision could have major implications for both Napoli and potentially MLS. As one of the world's top midfielders, his departure would be a significant loss for the Italian club, while his arrival in MLS would be a major coup for the league as it continues to attract global superstars nearing the end of their careers.

The details

After leaving Manchester City in 2024, De Bruyne signed with Napoli, where he has helped the club win the Scudetto. However, the 34-year-old has now admitted he is unsure about his future beyond his current contract, which runs through the 2026-27 season. De Bruyne said he is 'truly happy' in Naples, but did not rule out the possibility of playing elsewhere, including a potential move to MLS, where he was previously a target for several clubs.

  • De Bruyne's contract with Manchester City expired in June 2024.
  • De Bruyne signed with Napoli ahead of the 2024-25 season.
  • Napoli won the Scudetto in De Bruyne's first season with the club in 2024-25.
  • De Bruyne's current contract with Napoli runs through the 2026-27 season.

The players

Kevin De Bruyne

A 34-year-old Belgian soccer player who currently plays as a midfielder for Napoli in Italy's Serie A.

Antonio Conte

The head coach of Napoli, who has helped integrate De Bruyne into the team's system.

Lionel Messi

The Argentine soccer superstar who plays for Inter Miami in MLS.

Hugo Cuypers

A current Designated Player for the Chicago Fire in MLS.

Jonathan Bamba

A current Designated Player for the Chicago Fire in MLS.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know that yet; I'm not thinking about it right now. I'm not that type of person. I still have a contract, and I'm truly happy in Naples. I'm trying to enjoy the moment now. I believe I can still play for a few more years, then when my body tells me to stop, I will. But for now, I feel good.”

— Kevin De Bruyne, Napoli Midfielder

“When will I stop? I really don't know. Certainly, there will be nothing at first, because I'll want to enjoy my family, who have made so many sacrifices for me. Then I'll have to find something to do, obviously. In the near future, however, I just want to continue playing football, giving my best to stay at the highest level possible. I feel good, I'm happy, and my family is happy for me.”

— Kevin De Bruyne, Napoli Midfielder

What’s next

With over a year remaining on his Napoli contract, De Bruyne's future will likely remain a topic of speculation until he makes a definitive decision on his next move. If he does choose to leave the Italian club, MLS teams like the Chicago Fire, who hold his discovery rights, could make another push to bring the Belgian star to North America.

The takeaway

De Bruyne's uncertain future highlights the continued appeal of MLS for aging European superstars looking for one final chapter in their careers. While Napoli would be loath to lose their midfield maestro, the possibility of De Bruyne joining the likes of Lionel Messi in MLS remains an enticing prospect for the league as it seeks to attract more global talent.