Napoli’s 4-1 Champions League defeat by Porto has intensified concerns over the club’s form and dressing-room atmosphere, with Kevin De Bruyne’s late confrontation with Lorenzo Lucca prompting speculation that the Belgium international could leave only months after joining.
The dispute came shortly before the final whistle at the Estadio do Dragao. De Bruyne criticised Lucca’s positioning during an attack, prompting the forward to respond with repeated insults and move towards him for a face-to-face confrontation. The exchange did not develop into a physical incident.
It was reportedly not De Bruyne’s first disagreement with a team-mate since arriving at the club. La Gazzetta dello Sport says he also clashed with Denmark’s Højlund during a training session and argued with captain Di Lorenzo during a match.
Napoli midfielder Politano added to the speculation about discontent within the squad after the Porto defeat, saying: “I wish other teammates would step up to explain occasionally, instead of always us Italians.” He later made clear that he was not aiming the comment at any individual, but it nevertheless intensified discussion about the mood inside the dressing room.
De Bruyne’s salary is another factor in the uncertainty over his position. The new signing earns close to 6 million euros a year, while injuries and disagreements with Napoli manager Massimiliano Allegri have limited the return on that investment.
According to TuttoMercatoWeb, Napoli could consider De Bruyne’s departure during the winter transfer window as they look to reduce their wage bill. However, negotiations have not been confirmed.
The club’s difficulties extend beyond the reported internal tensions. Allegri’s side have collected only 15 points from 11 Serie A matches and sit 10th, 14 points behind leaders Lazio. Their last five matches have produced one win, two draws and two defeats.
Napoli’s Champions League campaign has been more troubling still. They are 27th in the group stage with three points from four games, having taken only three of a possible 12 points. Their sole victory was a 4-3 success against Bodø/Glimt, while they have also lost 1-0 to Arsenal, 3-1 to Villarreal and 4-1 to Porto.
Three defeats in four European matches have left the Italian club outside the qualification places for the next stage. Napoli still have four matches remaining in which to revive their campaign.
De Bruyne has contributed four goals and one assist in 11 league appearances. Although he remains an influential player, that output has not been enough to halt Napoli’s poor run, increasing the pressure on Allegri as concerns grow over both the team’s results and the situation within the squad.
