Manna: ‘Napoli long term project, De Bruyne brings quality’

Napoli director Giovanni Manna is not shaken by criticism of recent results and new signings, noting that Kevin De Bruyne was ‘an opportunity’ on the market.

The trip to PSV Eindhoven kicks off at the PSV Stadion at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this Champions League game and Union Saint-Gilloise vs. Inter on the Liveblog.

There has been criticism in the Italian media after a stuttering start to the season, including a Champions League defeat to Manchester City, plus two defeats in the last three Serie A games.

“We are concentrated on our work,” Manna told Sky Sport Italia.

“We have always said that we changed nine players because we needed to build the squad for a multi-year project. That is going to take time, especially when moving from other clubs and even leagues to a side like Napoli that just won the Scudetto.

“There will be moments that go better than others, they need to stay calm and get accustomed to this new reality of Napoli.”

Although some like Lorenzo Lucca, Noa Lang and Sam Beukema have been criticised for their performances, former Manchester City icon De Bruyne has already made his mark.

Manna was asked how that swoop for the free agent came about.

“We were looking for quality. De Bruyne was an opportunity on the transfer market, I think Kevin settled in very well, is having some very good performances, helping the team, and that is the most important thing.”

De Bruyne starts for Napoli this evening along with Scott McTominay, who has shaken off an ankle injury to make his comeback.