De Bruyne explains why he took the penalty intended for Højlund

Kevin De Bruyne has explained the decision that led him to take a penalty initially intended for Rasmus Højlund. The Belgian midfielder had just scored twice in Napoli’s 3-0 victory over Frosinone and said his enjoyment of playing remained undiminished. Named man of the match, he also said he wanted to make the most of football and his career for as long as he remained a professional.

“As long as I keep playing, I’ll try to get as much out of it as I can, because I love this sport,” he said. He also acknowledged that he had been better ten years earlier, before adding: “But the lads are helping me, and that’s the most important thing.”

De Bruyne said he thought Højlund could score, given his ability and the many penalties he had seen him take. He had therefore decided to give him the ball, reasoning that goals matter especially to a striker. The coach then changed the taker, De Bruyne explained, adding that Højlund would have other opportunities.

The Danish forward’s first attempt was saved by Frosinone goalkeeper Lorenzo Palmisani. After Lorenzo Palmisani saved the Danish striker’s initial penalty, officials ordered another attempt because the Frosinone goalkeeper had left his line.

The victory provided an encouraging response after the international break, while De Bruyne’s brace underlined his importance to Massimiliano Allegri’s team. Former Napoli striker Roberto Sosa also praised the player after the match.