Even before the announcement, the most authentic blessing arrives: the figurine. When a character enters the Neapolitan nativity scene, it is not just a handcrafted tribute, it is a declaration of love. And Kevin De Bruyne, according to the most reliable rumors, would be one step away from wearing the blue of Napoli.
The indiscretion, relaunched yesterday by Aurelio De Laurentiis himself live on Rai2 with the revelation of the purchase of a villa in the city by the Manchester City midfielder, has already inspired the expert hands of Marco Ferrigno, master nativity scene maker of San Gregorio Armeno.
Nativity scene master Ferrigno: “De Bruyne makes us dream”
"As soon as I heard the news, I knew I had to capture this moment," says Ferrigno, who sculpted the Belgian star's face in terracotta, with blond hair, a proud gaze, and a leadership pose. A figure who, in the artist's vision, perfectly embodies Napoli's new phase, fresh from their fourth Scudetto and ready to relaunch themselves on the international stage.
"De Bruyne is one of those players who make people dream, and Naples needs dreams," explains the artisan, who created the figurine based on a photograph of City's number 17. "There's room for everyone in the nativity scene, but those who come to Naples with the right heart immediately deserve a place of honor. This figurine is a wish for him and for all of us."
While we await the official confirmation of the deal – which could arrive in the next 48 hours – Naples is already preparing to welcome its new idol with the most ancient of popular blessings: a statue among shepherds and dreams, in the beating heart of San Gregorio Armeno.
Very interesting article about the De Bruyne figurine. The tradition of the Neapolitan nativity scene is beautiful and fascinating, but I wonder if De Bruyne really comes to Naples or are they just unfounded rumors, but I hope it's true.