In the swirling maelstrom of summer transfer rumors, is de bruyne going to mls has become one of the most asked questions among football fans. As Kevin De Bruyne prepares for the next chapter of his career after a decade of dominance at Manchester City, speculation abounded: could Major League Soccer be the next stop for the Belgian maestro? Today, TigerKick will take you through the full story: the offers he faced, the decision he made, and why the dream of De Bruyne in the U.S. fell short.
The Departure From Manchester City
When Manchester City announced they would not renew De Bruyne’s contract beyond the 2024–25 season, the football world knew that a major shift was underway. After nearly ten trophy-laden years—six Premier League titles, one Champions League, countless assists and defining moments—De Bruyne became a free agent, open to new challenges.
In the weeks that followed, rumors swirled: MLS clubs, Saudi Arabian sides, even some European contenders were on alert. Among the MLS suitors, Chicago Fire and Inter Miami repeatedly surfaced in speculation, with Inter Miami holding “discovery rights” in the MLS system. At one point, it seemed the United States was a strong contender for his next move.
Yet,. One report revealed that he would enter talks with Napoli, rejecting the MLS option. That choice would set the stage for his next stage in Italy’s Serie A.
What MLS Could Have Offered
The Financial Pull
MLS clubs routinely lure aging European stars with high salary packages and commercial stimulation. For a player of De Bruyne’s stature, an MLS offer likely would have included multi-year deals, robust endorsement opportunities, and lifestyle perks tied to brand expansion in the U.S.
Visibility and Legacy
A move to MLS would have cemented De Bruyne’s legacy among North American soccer fans. He would have become a marquee figure, with potential to elevate an MLS team’s profile, grow digital engagement, and serve as an ambassador bridging European and American football.
Sporting Trade-offs
However, MLS’s competitive level and schedule differ.
Why He Chose Napoli Over MLS
A Desire to Remain at the Top
Rather than following a commercial path, De Bruyne opted for footballing ambition. Napoli were coming off a league title and offered him a key role in a team still competing in Europe. He wanted to “keep playing at a high level,” and Serie A presented that path.
Emotional and Personal Considerations
De Bruyne has stated his bond with Manchester City remains strong—calling himself “a Man City player for life.” But he also sought fresh challenges and a new environment. The opportunity to team up with compatriots and familiar faces, and to live in a football-rich city like Naples, factored into his decision.
Turning Down the U.S.
In his press introduction at Napoli, De Bruyne revealed that offers.
Contract Terms and Structure
Napoli reportedly offered a two-year contract, with an option for a third season. Alongside the sporting appeal, the stability and structure of the deal likely matched his career goals.
What Happened After the Move
With the ink dry on his Napoli contract, critics and fans began scrutinizing how De Bruyne would adapt. The early signs point to both excitement and tension.
- He has already made a tangible impact: in Napoli’s Champions League matches, his assists played a critical role in victories.
- Conversely, friction with coach Antonio Conte has emerged. In one instance, he scored a goal and was substituted early, showing visible frustration.
- Media commentary has labeled him a “problem” in tactical alignment, though supporters argue his presence elevates Napoli’s creative dimension.
So far, De Bruyne is learning the language of Serie A again, and trying to harmonize his style with a team built on intensity, defensive structure, and rigorous tactical discipline.
Could an MLS Move Still Happen?
At this moment, the answer is no — De Bruyne is not going to MLS, at least not in this transfer window or the near future. His commitment to Napoli is firm, and his reasons are both professional and personal.
However, football is fluid and ever-changing. If in a year or two his fitness, form, or ambitions shift, a move to MLS might reenter the conversation. But for now, his journey continues in Europe, not America.
Final Thoughts
Is De Bruyne going to MLS? No—he has rejected the U.S. path, choosing Naples and Serie A over MLS stardom. It was a decision driven by ambition, respect for the sport, and his desire to continue performing on the grandest stages.
TigerKick hopes this article has clarified the full arc behind the rumors. If you want to dive deeper into De Bruyne’s stats, his tactical role at Napoli, or comparisons with other stars who made the MLS leap later in their careers, just say the word.
