Scott McTominay Hails Kevin De Bruyne After Napoli Debut Goal Against Sassuolo

When Napoli kicked off their Serie A title defence with a 2-0 victory over Sassuolo, much of the spotlight was inevitably on the new arrival — Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian maestro, fresh from his legendary stint at Manchester City, marked his Serie A debut with a trademark free-kick that sealed the win. But it was Scott McTominay, Napoli’s Scottish powerhouse in midfield, who not only opened the scoring but also stole headlines with his heartfelt praise for his new teammate.

For McTominay, who has become a leader in Luciano Spalletti’s side, sharing a pitch with De Bruyne is something of a dream. And his comments after the match summed up exactly how highly the Scot rates the former City captain.

‘I Need Advice!’ – McTominay on De Bruyne’s Influence

Speaking to DAZN after the final whistle, McTominay was quick to point out that while he’s often viewed as one of the team’s leaders, there’s plenty he feels he can learn from the Belgian.

“The message for pre-season was that we need to take off where we finished last season,” McTominay explained. “It was important to win against a difficult team, which was not so easy, but we are hungry this year and humble in the work as well.

“[De Bruyne] doesn’t need any advice; I need advice from him! What a player and what a guy as well. We are happy to have him and bring all his qualities. He’s ready to go; he just came in, and it’s like he’s been here for five years. He’s such a great guy. We are all together, the team spirit is the most important thing, and we remain humble.”

The words were telling. McTominay, who has battled his way into the heart of one of Europe’s top midfields, is now thriving alongside a player who has long been regarded as one of the world’s finest. It is a combination that promises to light up Napoli’s season.

Napoli’s New Midfield Powerhouse

Scott McTominay Sassuolo Napoli

Last season, McTominay was at the core of Napoli’s relentless push to another Serie A crown. His energy, aerial dominance, and tactical discipline were crucial in balancing a side brimming with attacking talent. But the arrival of De Bruyne elevates the midfield to a whole new level.

The Belgian’s ability to dictate games, pick passes others don’t even see, and deliver set-pieces with unerring accuracy makes him a weapon few opponents can contain. Against Sassuolo, he didn’t need long to show why he was brought in. His curling free-kick in the second half was a reminder of the brilliance Serie A fans are about to witness on a regular basis.

For McTominay, this partnership could also be career-defining. Not only does he provide the steel and balance that frees De Bruyne to express himself, but he also stands to learn daily from training alongside one of modern football’s most intelligent midfielders.

From Manchester to Naples – A Seamless Transition

Many wondered how De Bruyne would adapt to Italian football after years of dominating in England. Serie A is tactical, cagey, and often unforgiving for creative players. Yet, in true De Bruyne fashion, he has wasted no time in making himself at home.

“He’s ready to go,” McTominay said with admiration. “He just came in, and it’s like he’s been here for five years.”

That kind of instant impact doesn’t just happen. It speaks volumes about De Bruyne’s professionalism, humility, and football brain. At Napoli, where the dressing room prides itself on team spirit and togetherness, De Bruyne seems to have slotted straight in.

The Belgian is no stranger to high expectations. At City, he was the heartbeat of a side that swept up titles year after year. In Naples, the goals are the same: win Serie A, push deep into the Champions League, and do it with the style that has made the Partenopei one of Europe’s most exciting teams.

McTominay’s Growing Role as a Leader

While De Bruyne will grab headlines with his flair and moments of genius, McTominay’s importance cannot be understated. The Scot has grown into more than just a reliable midfielder; he has become a symbol of Napoli’s work ethic.

Last season, his goals from midfield and ability to dominate physical battles proved decisive in tight matches. Now, with De Bruyne alongside him, he is embracing the chance to add another layer to his game. The humility in admitting he wants to “learn” from the Belgian shows why McTominay is so respected by teammates and fans alike.

For Napoli supporters, this midfield pairing is mouth-watering. McTominay brings grit, drive, and a knack for big goals. De Bruyne adds vision, creativity, and world-class execution. Together, they form a duo capable of taking apart any opponent in Italy or Europe.

What Comes Next for Napoli?

The win over Sassuolo was the perfect start to the new campaign, but nobody inside the club is getting carried away. Napoli know they have a target on their back as reigning champions, and every side in Serie A will be desperate to take points off them.

Their next challenge comes against Cagliari on Saturday, August 30 — a game that offers another opportunity for De Bruyne to showcase his magic and for McTominay to continue his evolution as the heartbeat of the side.

If the early signs are anything to go by, Napoli fans can expect a thrilling season. With McTominay’s tireless energy and De Bruyne’s artistry, the Partenopei midfield might just be the most complete in Europe right now.

A Partnership to Watch

Football is full of unlikely partnerships that end up defining eras. In Naples, the pairing of Scott McTominay and Kevin De Bruyne could be the next great story. One is a battle-hardened warrior who thrives on effort and intensity. The other is a football genius capable of bending games to his will. Together, they look set to dominate Serie A and make a serious run in Europe.

McTominay may insist that he’s the one asking for advice, but the truth is Napoli’s new midfield duo will learn plenty from each other. For supporters, that’s a thrilling prospect — and for the rest of Serie A, it’s a frightening one.