New Napoli signing Kvaratskhelia: ‘Cristiano Ronaldo my role model’

New Napoli signing Kvicha Kvaratskhelia explains why he joined the Partenopei and says Cristiano Ronaldo is his role model.

The Georgia international has joined the Partenopei to replace Lorenzo Insigne, who signed with Toronto FC as a free agent.

He impressed during Napoli’s pre-season friendly against Anaune, scoring two goals in the Partenopei’s 10-0 win.

“Napoli are a strong team who play good football, when I received the official offer from the club, I decided without thinking twice,” he said at his unveiling press conference.

“I feel I’ve taken the right decision, it’s still early, so I’ll need more time to adapt. There is a friendly environment here, I knew Spalletti before coming here. He is a fantastic person and I’ve already learned a lot from him.”

Does he have a role model?

“Cristiano Ronaldo, I like playing as a left winger,” the 21-year-old said.

“I need three-four months to learn the language and the technical aspect of Italian football. I want to go into detail and learn the mechanism of it. I am ready and I want to give my best.”

Kvaratskhelia has picked No.77 because “seven is my favourite number, but the only number left was double seven. It brings me good luck.”

The Georgia international was asked his thoughts on the departures of Kalidou Koulibaly, Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens. “I am sorry Napoli lost these important players, but there are many good ones left here and everyone will do their best. I want to help the team and win as many trophies as possible.”

Some Napoli fans are already referring to him as Kvaradona, but the new Partenopei star understandably rules out any comparison with the Argentinean legend.

“Maradona means everything for Napoli, if they call me like this it’s a big responsibility. I can’t even go close to his level, but I’ll do everything to make sure Napoli fans are happy with me.”