In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of global football, new stars emerge with captivating skillsets and the ability to electrify audiences. One such talent who has taken the footballing world by storm is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian winger, often simply referred to as “Kvaradona” by adoring Napoli fans – a testament to the legendary Diego Maradona – has captured the imagination with his dazzling dribbling, creative flair, and crucial contributions on the pitch. This article delves into the burgeoning career of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, exploring his journey, his impact on Napoli, his playing style, and addressing the questions that football enthusiasts are asking about him online.
From Tbilisi to Naples: The Ascent of a Star
Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, on February 12, 2001, Kvaratskhelia’s footballing journey began in his homeland. He honed his skills at the Dinamo Tbilisi academy before moving to Rustavi, where he made his professional debut at a young age. His talent was evident early on, attracting the attention of Russian club Lokomotiv Moscow, where he played briefly before a loan spell at Rubin Kazan.
It was at Rubin Kazan that Kvaratskhelia truly began to showcase his exceptional abilities. His pace, dribbling prowess, and eye for goal made him a standout player in the Russian Premier League. Despite the geopolitical complexities that eventually led to his departure from Russia, his performances had already put him on the radar of several European clubs.
In the summer of 2022, Napoli, under the astute management of Luciano Spalletti, made a move for the Georgian winger. This transfer proved to be a masterstroke. Kvaratskhelia’s arrival in Naples ignited an already passionate fanbase and added a new dimension to Napoli’s attack.
The “Kvaradona” Effect: Transforming Napoli’s Fortunes
Kvaratskhelia’s impact on Napoli was nothing short of transformative. He seamlessly integrated into Spalletti’s tactical setup, forming a formidable attacking trident alongside Victor Osimhen and Matteo Politano (and later Giacomo Raspadori). His ability to take on defenders, create scoring opportunities, and deliver pinpoint crosses quickly made him a fan favorite.
His debut season (2022-2023) was sensational. Kvaratskhelia played a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic Scudetto triumph – their first league title in 33 years. His statistics spoke volumes: numerous goals, a plethora of assists, and countless moments of individual brilliance that left defenders bewildered. He was named the Serie A Player of the Season, a testament to his outstanding contributions.
Beyond the raw numbers, Kvaratskhelia brought a sense of excitement and unpredictability to Napoli’s play. His willingness to take risks, his audacious dribbling runs, and his ability to produce moments of magic from seemingly innocuous situations made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. The moniker “Kvaradona,” bestowed upon him by the passionate Neapolitan faithful, reflected the hope and excitement he brought to the club, echoing the legendary status of Diego Maradona in the city.
Playing Style: A Blend of Skill, Pace, and Creativity
Kvaratskhelia is a dynamic left winger known for his:
Exceptional Dribbling: His close control, quick changes of direction, and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations are hallmarks of his game. He can glide past opponents with ease, creating space for himself and his teammates.
Electric Pace: He possesses impressive speed and acceleration, allowing him to burst past defenders and exploit spaces in the opposition’s backline.
Creative Flair: Kvaratskhelia is not just about beating players; he has a creative spark that allows him to unlock defenses with intelligent passes, through balls, and moments of improvisation.
Powerful and Accurate Shooting: He has demonstrated the ability to score goals with both his left and right foot, possessing a powerful shot and the composure to finish in crucial moments.
Crossing Ability: His crosses from the left wing are often accurate and dangerous, providing opportunities for his teammates in the box.
Work Rate: Despite his attacking flair, Kvaratskhelia also demonstrates a willingness to work hard for the team, tracking back and contributing defensively when needed.
His playing style has drawn comparisons to other gifted wingers, but Kvaratskhelia possesses a unique blend of these attributes that makes him a truly exciting and unpredictable talent.
FAQs
Who is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia?
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is a professional footballer from Georgia, born on February 12, 2001, in Tbilisi. Standing at 1.83 meters, he primarily plays as a left winger but is versatile enough to operate as a second striker or on the right wing. Known for his exceptional dribbling, agility, and playmaking skills, he has been dubbed “Kvaradona” due to his playing style reminiscent of Diego Maradona.
Which club does Kvaratskhelia currently play for?
As of January 17, 2025, Kvaratskhelia plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in France’s Ligue 1. He signed a contract with PSG that runs until June 30, 2029.
What was the transfer fee for his move to PSG?
Kvaratskhelia transferred from Napoli to PSG for a reported fee of €70 million, with potential add-ons bringing the total to €80 million.
How has he performed at PSG so far?
Since joining PSG, Kvaratskhelia has made a significant impact. Notably, he scored two second-half goals in PSG’s 3-1 victory over Auxerre on May 17, 2025, concluding the Ligue 1 season on a high note.
What are his career statistics?
During the 2024/2025 season, Kvaratskhelia played 34 Serie A games for Napoli, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists. After his move to PSG, he continued to showcase his talent, contributing crucial goals and assists in both domestic and European competitions.
What is his salary at PSG?
At PSG, Kvaratskhelia earns an estimated gross salary of €16.36 million for the 2024-2025 season, equating to approximately €314,615 per week.
What is his current market value?
As of May 2025, Kvaratskhelia’s market value is estimated at €80 million.
Has he suffered any significant injuries?
Yes, while at Napoli, Kvaratskhelia suffered a knee ligament tear, which sidelined him for several weeks.
What is known about his personal life?
Kvaratskhelia is married to Nitsa Tavadze, a doctor who studied medicine at Tbilisi State University.
Has he received any individual awards?
Yes, Kvaratskhelia was named Serie A Most Valuable Player and the Champions League’s Young Player of the Season during his tenure at Napoli.
To conclude
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s journey from the streets of Tbilisi to the grand stages of European football is a testament to his talent, determination, and adaptability. His rise through the ranks, marked by significant contributions at clubs like Napoli and now PSG, showcases his ability to adapt and excel in different footballing environments.
At Napoli, Kvaratskhelia played a crucial role in securing the club’s first Serie A title in 33 years, earning individual accolades such as the Serie A Most Valuable Player and the Champions League’s Young Player of the Season. His move to PSG in January 2025 for a substantial fee underscores his value and the high expectations placed upon him.
Since joining PSG, he has continued to impress, notably scoring two goals in a decisive 3-1 victory over Auxerre, contributing to PSG’s strong finish in the Ligue 1 season. His performances have not only solidified his place in the team but have also endeared him to fans, who appreciate his flair and commitment on the pitch.
Beyond his club achievements, Kvaratskhelia has been instrumental in elevating Georgian football on the international stage. His contributions to the national team, including helping Georgia qualify for UEFA Euro 2024, have inspired a new generation of footballers in his home country.
Off the field, Kvaratskhelia maintains a relatively private life. He is married to Nitsa Tavadze, a doctor who studied medicine at Tbilisi State University. Their relationship reflects a grounded and supportive partnership, providing stability amidst the pressures of professional sports.
Financially, his move to PSG has significantly increased his earnings, with an estimated gross salary of €16.36 million for the 2024-2025 season. This financial uplift is a reflection of his value in the modern football market and the expectations that come with such a high-profile transfer.
In summary, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s career trajectory is marked by consistent growth, adaptability, and a drive to succeed at the highest levels of football. His journey serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with talent and determination, one can rise from local beginnings to international acclaim.
To read more , click here
