Kevin de Bruyne is a world football legend. A undisputed star for almost ten years in Manchester City, where he scored his time with bright passes and decisive goals, the Belgian recently turned a page by committing with Naples. However, before this Italian choice, by Bruyne almost fulfilled a childhood dream by joining an emblematic club of English football.
A dream named Liverpool for de Bruyne
Liverpool was this secret club. While his departure from Manchester City was acted, from Bruyne actually discussed with the leaders of the Reds, as reported by The Athletic. This rapprochement would have constituted a huge surprise in England, where such a transaction between two major rivals remains extremely rare. But behind this option was mainly hidden the dream of a child passionate about the exploits of men in red.
“I was a fan of Liverpool”, had thus admitted Kevin de Bruyne in an interview with Match of the Day. An unequivocal statement, nourished by sincere admiration for icons of the time, notably Michael Owen, his model during his childhood. “I loved Owen because, like him, I was small and fast. I often compare myself to him ”, had explained by Bruyne, also quoting Zidane and Ronaldinho among his idols.
Why did the dream have come?
Despite this deep desire, by Bruyne chose Naples for a simple reason: playing time. Indeed, discussions with Liverpool have stopped on a role proposed by Arne Slot, more oriented towards punctual use, similar to the role of Wataru Endo. For a player as competitive as Bruyne, the idea of ​​playing the supporting roles was unthinkable.
It is therefore the Napoli of Antonio Conte, reigning Italian champion, who finally knew how to convince the Belgian maestro, with a clear promise to be a major player in the team next season. De Bruyne therefore prefers to favor continuity at the very high level, rather than simply fulfilling a sentimental dream.
A career marked by strong choices
This choice confirms the determination of De Bruyne, he who has always favored the sporting aspect to any other consideration. His refusal of Liverpool is not an emotional rejection, but a pragmatic refusal. At 33, the Belgian environment knows that its time at the highest level is precious and must be optimized at all times.
He now prefers to note the Neapolitan challenge and continue his quest for major trophies, even if it means giving up a childhood dream, even if it has certainly been a difficult decision to make.
An eternal regret?
Despite everything, one can legitimately wonder if Kevin de Bruyne will not feel a slight twinge in the heart at the idea of ​​never having worn the jersey of Liverpool. Perhaps at the time of the balance sheet, this little regret will come out, he who could have materialized this dream which he has long caressed. One thing is certain: the supporters of the Reds, they will regret for a long time what could have been a magnificent love story between Liverpool and one of the greatest talents of modern football.
