In the vibrant heart of Naples, a rather delightful subplot is unfolding for football giants Kevin De Bruyne and Scott McTominay. While fans eagerly await their midfield synergy on the pitch for Napoli, it appears a different kind of alliance has already blossomed off it – one between their partners. Michele Lacroix, De Bruyne`s wife, and Cam Reading, McTominay`s partner, have reportedly formed a fast friendship, proving that sometimes, the most crucial team-building happens far from the training ground.
The tale begins with two stellar midfielders, former rivals from Manchester`s fiercely competitive landscape, now united under the Neapolitan sky. One might expect intense training sessions and strategic huddles to be the primary focus for forging a formidable partnership. However, for De Bruyne and McTominay, the foundation for future on-field chemistry seems to be laid on a padel court, where they`ve been spotted cheering on their respective partners. This charming scene unfolded at the Padel Centre in Varcaturo, near Napoli’s Castel Volturno training facility, offering a rare glimpse into the personal lives of these international stars.
The Neapolitan Embrace: A City of Friendship and Family
Naples, a city renowned for its warmth and passionate spirit, has seemingly worked its magic on the two families. Michele and Cam, both relatively new to the city, have become inseparable. During the recent international break, while their significant others were away representing their national teams, the two women explored the Campania region, enjoying everything from scenic boat trips to Capri to indulging in local pizza and red wine. Their instant connection, a bond formed over shared experiences in a new country, has been remarkable.
For Cam Reading, Napoli`s charm was no secret. Last season, she publicly expressed her affection for the city, marking her arrival with a «Forza Napoli» and declaring it their «beautiful new city.» Her explorations have taken her across the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Sorrento, soaking in the region`s breathtaking beauty. For Michele and Kevin, the choice of Naples held a deeper, more romantic resonance; they married in a stunning hotel on the Sorrento peninsula in 2017. The city’s modern amenities, excellent educational facilities for their children, and diverse leisure options have made it an ideal home. Kevin, for instance, is a familiar sight at the Academy Posillipo, often staying to watch his son Mason train, a testament to their family-oriented integration.
Off-Field Sync vs. On-Field Search: The Midfield Conundrum
While the wives` rapport is thriving, the on-field partnership between De Bruyne and McTominay is still very much a work in progress. Initially touted as a potential Serie A midfield powerhouse, their synergy, despite promising starts (both scoring in the opening game against Sassuolo), has yet to fully materialize. Coach Antonio Conte, recognizing their individual qualities, has experimented with a 4-1-4-1 formation to accommodate both. De Bruyne`s numbers continue to impress, fueled by an immediate understanding with striker Rasmus Hojlund. His six goals for club and country, coupled with four assists and an expected goals (xG) average of 0.33 per game (a forward-like statistic), underscore his consistent impact.
McTominay`s situation, however, presents a contrast. Currently operating primarily as a left-sided attacking midfielder, his goal tally stands at just one for Napoli. While his overall statistics — 0.22 xG (compared to 0.28 last season), 86% pass completion, and 45.2% duels won — suggest a solid contribution, he often finds attacking spaces congested when venturing into the box. Several factors might contribute to this. McTominay notably missed much of the pre-season, training separately and sitting out friendly matches, which could have hampered his integration. Furthermore, the absence of Romelu Lukaku, who perfectly complemented Conte`s offensive scheme last season by creating crucial space for midfielders` runs, is keenly felt. Lukaku`s presence undoubtedly influenced McTominay`s impressive 12-goal haul last year.
The Promise of Partnership
Despite the current disparity, the underlying sentiment remains optimistic. If the effortless chemistry demonstrated by their partners off the field is any indication, De Bruyne and McTominay have ample time to discover their perfect on-field alchemy. After all, if wives can bridge the gap from former rivals to best friends in a matter of months, surely two world-class midfielders can find their rhythm to dominate Serie A. The foundations, perhaps in the most unexpected of places, are already being laid.