Di Lorenzo’s red card after 21 minutes forces Conte to reshuffle Napoli’s anti-City lineup, sacrificing the great former player for Olivera. He accepts the decision, greets the crowd, and exits.

He leaves. He glances at the crowd applauding him, and he returns the applause. Then he takes his place on the bench after high-fiving his teammates who welcome him. Perhaps in his heart he does not agree with the coach’s decision. But he accepts it. As only top-quality players know how to do. Because he understands the situation. The game of the great ex, Kevin De Bruyne, 34, at the Etihad, which saw him as a protagonist and winner (six championships and a Champions League, among other things…) for over ten years with Manchester City, lasts less than 25 minutes. A few touches to show that Napoli is already his. Then, in the 21st minute, captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was sent off for a foul on Erling Haaland, who was charging towards goal, which escaped the referee but not the VAR, leaving Napoli with ten men. This forced Antonio Conte to sacrifice one of the Fab Four in midfield to bring on a defender, Mathías Olivera.
Politano remained on the pitch as the new captain. Anguissa remained on the pitch, his athleticism in the middle being crucial. McTominay remained on the pitch: his mobility and ability to get involved in attack are essential. The Azzurri coach’s choice therefore fell on De Bruyne, the most expendable – from a tactical point of view – of the four, who, however, would have expected applause from his former fans at the end of the match. It happens.