Khvicha Kvaratskhelia suggested that Napoli are ‘one of the best clubs in the world’ amidst links to Barcelona ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old Georgian winger has still managed to impress this term despite the chaos surrounding the Partenopei, netting 10 goals and providing five assists in 26 Serie A matches. His form has improved under Francesco Calzona, scoring in his last three league outings.
Kvaratskhelia, who has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain in the summer, is still on the initial contract he signed when joining Napoli from Dinamo Batumi in the summer of 2022, making him one of the lowest paid players in the squad.
Speaking to Versus at the Adidas ‘Generation Pred’ advertising event via TMW, Kvaratskhelia was first asked what it’s like playing for Napoli.
“I’m very happy because the Napoli fans are really fantastic. They love football so much and I’m proud that they treat me so well.
“Napoli are a great team with great legends, Maradona played here and there’s no one greater.
“It’s also a fantastic city and, in my opinion, one of the best clubs in the world. It’s things like this that make your experience at a club unforgettable.”
Kvaratskhelia commented on his nickname ‘Kvaradona’ and how it makes him feel.
“Maradona is the god of Napoli. To be compared to him is so nice. But of course, I can’t compare myself to him because he is one of the best players in all history. Of course, I’m incredibly proud that the fans call me ‘Kvaradona’, it means a lot to me.”
The Georgian winger spoke about how it feels to play in the Champions League.
“For me it’s a dream. Even in my dreams I couldn’t imagine that one day I would listen to the anthem on the pitch. It was fantastic to listen to it for the first time.
“And when the anthem ended, in Napoli they sang ‘The Champions!’, and it was fantastic. It was an incredible feeling and a dream come true. It gave me the motivation to work even harder than I do now.”
Finally, Kvaratskhelia discussed how he copes with being called one of the best players in Europe.
“It’s difficult. Everyone looks at you and looks at you as an example. Even in Georgia the kids love me, so I have to be a role model for them. I have to be calm, humble and try to give my best on the pitch and also off of it.”