After a 10-year association with City that included six Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League triumph, and a historic Treble, the Belgian international departed the side amid frustrations that he hadn't been offered a new contract when he felt he still had more to give manager Pep Guardiola and his side.
The 34 year old’s move to Serie A was confirmed earlier this month by the reigning Italian champions after much transfer speculation this summer as many wondered where the playmaker would spend the final years of his career.
Now, speaking to reporters this week the veteran midfielder explained why he made the move to Italy after establishing himself as a Premier League legend.
"I have been in the Premier League for so long and in the end I made the decision to go out of England," he said.
"I have done what I have done and in the end I am a Man City player for life. It was also with the way that it ended for me, I thought, it is time to find a new challenge.
"When I had the whole project in front of me and then the fact that I could play in Italy and still play at a high level was exciting for me."
De Bruyne will hope he can inspire his teammates to replicate their title-winning exploits from last season in what should be another thrilling title race. He added that the move makes sense for him and his career path which has always been about lifting as many trophies as possible as he seeks out success at the top of the game.
“From a competitive standpoint, it’s the best place for me. Napoli demonstrated their quality last year. It will be totally different from England. I still feel competitive and want to prove I can still play at a high level.”