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Kvaratskhelia Bids Farewell to Napoli, Honoring Maradona and Embracing PSG Move

The Georgian star reflects on Diego Maradona's legacy and his transformative journey in Naples as he heads to PSG in a €75 million transfer.

By Sebastián Hernadez

Photo taken from social networks.
Photo taken from social networks.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, affectionately known as 'Kvara,' bid an emotional farewell to Napoli on Thursday, paying tribute to the club’s eternal icon, Diego Maradona. In a heartfelt video shared on social media, the Georgian winger, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s 2023 Scudetto triumph, expressed gratitude for his time at the club and acknowledged Maradona’s unparalleled influence.

“Here, you truly feel what Diego means to this city. They love him more than anything or anyone. Diego lives in the heart of every Neapolitan, and he always will. Naples and Diego are inseparable—he is the God of football, and that is felt even more strongly here,” said Kvaratskhelia.

A Transformative Journey in Naples

Reflecting on his time in Naples, Kvaratskhelia described the city as a place brimming with unique stories and energy. Having arrived as an unknown talent two and a half seasons ago, he leaves as one of the most feared wingers in world football.

“Naples became my home. I came here alone, but now I leave with my wife and child. I take with me the love of the fans, unforgettable victories, and, most importantly, the Scudetto this city dreamed of for so many years,” he said.

However, Kvaratskhelia left fans intrigued with his parting words: “I know you’re upset, but one day, I’ll tell you everything.”

The Legacy of Maradona and the Scudetto Triumph

Maradona’s legacy looms large in Naples, having guided the club to unprecedented heights with two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia, a Supercoppa Italiana, and a UEFA Cup during his seven seasons. Kvaratskhelia added his own chapter to this storied history, contributing 30 goals and 24 assists in 104 appearances for Napoli.

Napoli, however, has faced significant departures from their title-winning squad. Polish midfielder Piotr Zielinski joined Inter Milan, South Korean defender Kim Min-Jae moved to Bayern Munich, and Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen was loaned to Galatasaray after a dispute with the club.

A New Chapter at PSG

The 22-year-old now sets his sights on Paris Saint-Germain, where he joins an ambitious project. The €75 million transfer solidifies his status among Europe’s elite.

“I grew as a person and as an athlete in Naples. The emotions, the chants, the energy—it was extraordinary. I’m happy to have been part of this incredible history,” Kvaratskhelia said, as he embraced his next challenge with PSG.

Key Points:

  • Farewell to Naples: Kvaratskhelia reflected on the city’s passion for football and the enduring legacy of Maradona.
  • Scudetto impact: He leaves after helping Napoli win their first Serie A title in over three decades.
  • Impressive stats: Played 104 matches, scoring 30 goals and providing 24 assists.
  • Team departures: Napoli loses key Scudetto contributors, including Zielinski, Kim Min-Jae, and Osimhen.
  • PSG move: Kvaratskhelia joins Paris Saint-Germain in a €75 million deal, marking a new chapter in his career.

Sebastián  Hernadez

Sebastián Hernadez

I am Sebastián Hernández Cárdenas, a Colombian sports journalist born in the vibrant city of Barranquilla, Colombia. With an innate passion for sports, I have dedicated my career to covering the most important events and news in the sports world.I have been fortunate to work in some of the most prestigious media outlets in Colombia and Latin America. I was part of the ESPN team, where I covered high-level sporting events and interviewed personalities from the world of sports. I have also worked ...

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