De Bruyne Scores on Debut as Napoli Begin Title Defence with Win at Sassuolo

Kevin De Bruyne marked his Napoli debut with a goal as the reigning Serie A champions opened their title defence with a 2-0 victory away to Sassuolo, Sport360NG reports.

The 34-year-old Belgian, who arrived on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City in the summer, struck just before the hour with a curling free-kick that found the far corner.

Napoli had earlier taken the lead in the 17th minute through Scott McTominay, the Scotland midfielder rising to head in Matteo Politano’s cross from the right.

McTominay, 28, has become a key figure since joining from Manchester United in 2024, finishing last season with 12 goals in 34 league matches on his way to being named Serie A’s MVP as Antonio Conte guided the club to the title. He has now netted 14 times in 37 appearances across all competitions for the Italian champions and is among the nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Sassuolo’s challenge faded late on when Ismael Koné, on loan from Marseille, was dismissed for a second booking with 11 minutes remaining.

In Sunday’s other fixture, Genoa and Lecce shared the points after a goalless stalemate.