Napoli fans criticized Kevin De Bruyne on social media for problem Pep Guardiola once called out.

Napoli supporters have unleashed fierce criticism towards Kevin De Bruyne for reasons reminiscent of Pep Guardiola’s public admonishment of one of his Manchester City players in the past.

The 33-year-old midfielder signed a two-year deal with the Serie A champions earlier this summer after his contract with City expired, bringing an end to a glittering 10-year spell in Manchester. While no longer the commanding force of previous seasons, his arrival in Naples was considered a major coup for a side fresh off their second league title in three years.

However, De Bruyne’s pre-season has been far from the dream start many anticipated. Napoli have managed just one win from their four friendly fixtures so far — three of which were against lower-league Italian opposition — with the Belgian yet to register a goal. With three games left before the new campaign, frustration is already spilling over among the club’s passionate fanbase.

Supporters have taken to social media to voice their concerns, particularly over De Bruyne’s physical condition. One fan claimed: “Anyone with a technical eye would have seen that yesterday De Bruyne was running with incredible heaviness and was often inaccurate with his through balls.” Another was even more blunt: “Give him an XL shirt, you’re letting him eat too much.”

The criticism echoes a situation Guardiola faced with Kalvin Phillips after the 2022 World Cup, when the City boss openly stated that the England midfielder had returned overweight — exceeding his target by 1.5kg. Phillips later admitted the comments were true but revealed they had dented his confidence and upset his family, prompting Guardiola to issue a public apology.

For De Bruyne, the scrutiny is an early test of resilience in Italy. While his pedigree and talent are unquestionable, Napoli fans will be expecting a rapid turnaround in form and fitness as the club prepares to defend their Serie A crown and embark on another Champions League campaign.