Napoli began their Serie A title defence with a confident 2-0 triumph away at Sassuolo. Scott McTominay broke the deadlock with a powerful header, before new arrival Kevin De Bruyne confirmed the result with a trademark free-kick strike. Both midfielders played key roles on the opening weekend, showing early signs of a partnership that could define the season.
The Belgian international’s league debut immediately caught attention, as his set-piece quality delivered the decisive second goal. McTominay, meanwhile, continued the form that saw him drive Napoli to the title last year, setting the tone with his first-half opener.
McTominay’s admiration for his teammate
Speaking after the final whistle to DAZN, McTominay was quick to highlight the influence of his new teammate. He admitted that, despite being named Serie A’s Most Valuable Player last season, he is the one learning from De Bruyne.
“The message in pre-season was that we need to continue from where we finished last year,” McTominay explained. “It was important to win against a tough opponent, which was not easy, but we are hungry this year and humble in our work as well. De Bruyne doesn’t need any advice; I need advice from him!”
The midfielder went on to praise De Bruyne’s presence in the squad: “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 feels 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 must remain humble.”
A formidable midfield ahead
McTominay was the central figure in Napoli’s midfield last season, and his leadership on the pitch remains essential as the club looks to defend its title. Now, with De Bruyne added to the squad, the Partenopei possess one of the most formidable midfield combinations in Europe.
Napoli’s focus will remain firmly on the Serie A campaign, with De Bruyne expected to adapt quickly to Italian football and provide creativity alongside McTominay’s drive. Their partnership offers the side both experience and balance in midfield.
The reigning champions will next face Cagliari on Saturday, August 30, a match that provides another opportunity for the new-look midfield to showcase its potential.
