Antonio Conte, Napoli’s head coach, put an end to speculation about his tense relationship with the team’s star Kevin De Bruyne following his substitution in the match against Milan last Sunday. De Bruyne appeared angry as he left the field, muttering some words in front of Conte’s eyes, in the game that ended with Napoli losing to Milan 2-1 in the fifth round of the Italian Serie A.

However, Napoli quickly regained balance, winning 2-1 against Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday in the UEFA Champions League, after losing their opening match against Manchester City by two goals to nil.

In an interview with Sky Sports after the match, the Italian coach addressed media speculation about a dispute with De Bruyne, saying: “Kevin, compared to other signings, comes from a different reality. He spent years at Manchester City playing at the highest level. I have nothing to say to him, he is a great player and works hard. I understand his desire to play, but there are also substitutions. I want to win, and if I make changes, it is to improve the team. It is natural for things to be discussed in the media based on results. The important thing is that everyone gives their best for the team.”

Kevin De Bruyne also put an end to recent speculation about a dispute with Antonio Conte following the match against Lisbon, stating: “No problem with Conte, there was never any problem with him. I am a winner, I want to play football and make a difference. Much has been said and written, but I just want to enjoy and move forward.”

De Bruyne also explained his role in Conte’s plan, which made him play in midfield while Scott McTominay played on the wings, saying: “At first, I played the same way at City, often dropping back. These are the coach’s decisions, but I think we can switch positions among the four of us. Without a true left winger, it is sometimes difficult to find depth in the team.”

Kevin joined Napoli in the last summer transfer window on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City at the end of his contract, following a successful career full of titles with the Sky Blues.