De Bruyne Honored to Wear Napoli’s No.10 in Maradona Tribute

Kevin De Bruyne’s arrival at Napoli has already made headlines, but his first training session in Serie A brought an especially emotional moment. The Belgian midfielder was welcomed to the Italian club with a special gesture—training in the legendary No.10 shirt, a number forever associated with Diego Maradona.

Kevin De Bruyne’s First Napoli Training: Wearing Maradona’s No.10

Kevin De Bruyne, Napoli’s latest marquee signing, expressed his surprise and gratitude after being allowed to train in Diego Maradona’s iconic No.10 shirt. The number, which has been officially retired by Napoli in honor of the Argentine legend, was offered to De Bruyne as part of a warm club welcome. “I was a bit surprised, to be honest,” De Bruyne admitted. “It’s an honor, and I have nothing but respect for Maradona and what he means to Napoli and the football world.”

Known for his vision and playmaking skills, De Bruyne recognizes the weight of wearing a shirt that carries such immense history for the club and its fans. Although he wore the No.10 jersey only during training, the gesture underlined Napoli’s hopes that De Bruyne can bring a similar magic to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Why Napoli’s No.10 is So Significant

In Serie A, certain shirt numbers carry legacies, but none more so than Napoli’s No.10. Diego Maradona, who led Napoli to unprecedented success with two Serie A titles and a UEFA Cup, is forever etched in the club’s identity. After Maradona’s passing, the club retired the No.10 as a mark of permanent respect.

Allowing Kevin De Bruyne to briefly wear this revered number in training was a symbolic act, bridging the past and present. It signified both a welcome to De Bruyne and an invitation to embrace Napoli’s storied culture.

De Bruyne to Wear No.11 for Official Matches

Despite the training tribute, De Bruyne will don the No.11 shirt when the Serie A season begins. Napoli confirmed this decision, emphasizing respect for the club’s traditions while welcoming their new star. At 34 years old, De Bruyne’s experience and class are seen as vital additions to Luciano Spalletti’s side, who aim to build on last season’s successes and challenge again for domestic and European honors.

Kevin De Bruyne’s Reaction: Embracing the Napoli Legacy

For De Bruyne, wearing the No.10 shirt—even in training—was more than just a gesture. “It’s a privilege to be part of a club that values its history so much. The fans, the atmosphere, the passion—these are things every footballer dreams of experiencing,” he said. De Bruyne has also highlighted his excitement to play at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona and contribute to Napoli’s ambitions.

His arrival has injected further excitement into the squad, with players and fans alike eager to see how the former Manchester City star will adapt to Serie A.

Looking Ahead: De Bruyne’s Role in Napoli’s Ambitions

Napoli’s management sees De Bruyne not only as a world-class playmaker but also as a leader on and off the pitch. His experience in the Premier League and Champions League is expected to elevate Napoli’s game. The club’s friendly approach—highlighted by the Maradona shirt gesture—demonstrates their commitment to integrating De Bruyne and making him feel at home.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on De Bruyne as he prepares to help Napoli chase silverware. His creativity and football intelligence could prove instrumental in unlocking Serie A defenses and providing the spark that Napoli’s attack needs.

Opinion: De Bruyne’s Napoli Chapter Begins on a Special Note

Welcoming Kevin De Bruyne to Napoli by allowing him to train in Maradona’s No.10 was a powerful gesture that blends respect for history with optimism for the future. While no one can truly fill Maradona’s shoes, De Bruyne’s professionalism and talent may well write a remarkable new chapter for the Azzurri. For more news about Napoli, De Bruyne, and world football, be sure to visit for more news.