De Bruyne questions Italy’s youth culture after Vergara revelation

Kevin De Bruyne has pointed to Napoli teammate Antonio Vergara as an example of Italy’s struggle to give young players regular first-team opportunities. Speaking about the 23-year-old midfielder, De Bruyne said he initially believed Vergara was only 18 because of how little senior football he had played, according to a report by HF World.

The Belgian midfielder contrasted Italy with England and Belgium, where teenagers are more frequently trusted at senior level. De Bruyne stressed that Vergara now needs consistent playing time to continue developing. His comments have reignited debate about Serie A’s approach to youth development and whether talented players are being given enough opportunities to establish themselves.