Scott McTominay could not hide his admiration for Kevin De Bruyne after Napoli’s 2-0 win over Sassuolo, where both midfielders found the back of the net. The former Manchester United star hailed the Belgian as a 'great guy' and even admitted he is the one seeking advice, despite being last season's Serie A MVP. De Bruyne marked his league debut with a trademark free-kick goal.
- McTominay and De Bruyne both scored in Sassuolo victory
- Napoli midfield partnership already showing early promise
- Scot hoping to learn from Belgian
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Napoli secured a commanding 2-0 victory away at Sassuolo on the opening weekend of the new Serie A season. McTominay opened the scoring with a towering header before De Bruyne sealed the win with a sublime free-kick, and the Scot claimed that he needs 'advice' from the Belgian.
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WHAT MCTOMINAY SAID
Speaking to , McTominay said: "The message for the pre-season was we need to take off where we finished last season. It was important to win against a difficult team, which was not so easy, but are hungry this year and humble in the work as well. [De Bruyne] doesn't need any advice; I need advice from him!
"What a player and what a guy as well. We are happy to have him and bring all his qualities. He’s ready to go; he just came in, and it’s like he’s been here for five years. He’s such a great guy. We are all together, the team spirit is the most important thing, and remain humble."
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
McTominay was the heartbeat of Napoli’s midfield last season, driving them to another Serie A title. Now, with De Bruyne arriving, the Partenopei boast one of Europe’s most powerful midfield pairings.
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WHAT NEXT FOR NAPOLI?
Napoli continue to focus on their Serie A title defence, with De Bruyne expected to play a pivotal role in adapting his game to Italian football. McTominay will continue to be a leader in midfield while also learning from the Belgian maestro. Their next test comes against Cagliari on Saturday, August 30.