Kevin De Bruyne says he was “stunned however honoured” after Napoli handed him Diego Maradona’s legendary No. 10 shirt upon his arrival in Italy.
Softfootball reported that the Belgian midfielder joined the Serie A giants on a free switch final month following a glittering decade with Manchester Metropolis. As a part of his official welcome, the membership had De Bruyne practice in shorts emblazoned with the long-lasting quantity famously worn by Maradona throughout his unforgettable spell in Naples.
Chatting with reporters because the membership’s official accounts revealed, De Bruyne admitted he didn’t anticipate to obtain such a symbolic quantity.
“I’d say I used to be a bit stunned to start with as a result of clearly I do know that the quantity was retired. However in one other approach, it’s an honour.
“It’s an honour from the workforce and from the membership to offer me this duty. I don’t suppose it provides any extra stress. I feel the stress comes from itself for those who play for large groups like Napoli, the stress will likely be there. There’s a workforce that desires to win, so you already know what you must do as a participant, as a squad.
“However I don’t consider {that a} quantity or the rest will add the stress. Maradona is likely one of the legends of the sport, and is synonymous with Napoli. Anyway, we all know that, however I’m grateful. I’m proud. However I’m my very own participant.
“I’m going to try to do the job the very best I can do, and hopefully I can convey pleasure to the workforce and to town and to the followers, and get some good performances in that.”
Maradona’s legacy stays deeply woven into the material of Napoli, and whereas comparisons are inevitable, De Bruyne will not be making an attempt to fill the Argentine legend’s sneakers.
“Maradona is likely one of the recreation’s legends. He’s a part of Napoli’s soul. However I’m my very own participant. I’ll convey my finest qualities and hopefully give the followers one thing to cheer about.”
The 33-year-old added that he’s absolutely dedicated to writing his personal chapter in Naples. “I’m grateful, I’m proud. I simply wish to play my recreation, contribute to the workforce, and convey pleasure to town. That’s what issues most.”
As De Bruyne begins this new chapter in his profession, all eyes will likely be on how the playmaker carries the burden of historical past on his again whereas forging his personal legacy.
