Manchester City are set to host Napoli at Etihad Stadium in their first Champions League game of the campaign on September 18.
City's opening match in the competition this season will also see their club legend, Kevin De Bruyne, return to Etihad after making the move to Napoli as a free agent this summer.
De Bruyne arrived at Man City from VfL Wolfsburg in 2015 and parted ways with the English side after 10 illustrious years, during which he won 19 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the club's first-ever Champions League title.
Now, ahead of the upcoming match, Napoli head coach Antonio Conte has revealed that he has 'asked' De Bruyne 'a few things,' given the Belgian star's experience at Pep Guardiola's squad.
What did Napoli boss Antonio Conte say ahead of Champions League opener against Man City?
During his pre-match press conference, Conte mentioned that he hopes De Bruyne to 'contribute like he has been doing' for Napoli against Man City, and said,
"To be honest it's always been very careful preparation like it has been for every single match. We're not doing anything particularly different," as per City Xtra.
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"I've spoken to Kevin [De Bruyne], I've asked him a few things, he's been a part of this club for 10 years and had a great coach like Pep Guardiola. Kevin will be excited to be playing but I'm hoping that after the starting whistle he will find his feet and remember that he's playing for our great Napoli and contribute like he has been doing."
Napoli captain, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, also shared his thoughts on De Bruyne facing his former club and added,
"He didn't really talk about his ex-teammates but I'm sure he will be happy to play tomorrow, to come back in this stadium where he has enjoyed many matches. I know that they will welcome him back and be pleased to see him. He deserves it and I hope he will have a great match."
While De Bruyne's return to the other side of the dugouts of Etihad will be an emotional affair, both Napoli and Man City are expected to fight to start off their 2025/26 Champions League campaign with a win.
Champions League news and related links
- UEFA Champions League fixtures 2025/26: Schedule of matchdays, results
- Man City vs. Napoli lineups: Predicted starting XI, team news as Kevin De Bruyne returns to Etihad
- Pep Guardiola opens up on Man City not being favourites for 2025/26 Champions League