NXT-GN: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Image by Forbes

Next on the NXT-GN series is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is currently putting the world on notice with his impressive displays for club and country this season. The Georgian international has burst onto the scene in the Serie A and the UEFA Champions League, dropping superb performance after performance for Napoli.

The 21-year-old was signed from Rubin Kazan for $9.8 million this summer by current club Napoli, and he has made that price look like an absolute bargain. He has been so good that he earned a nickname from the Partenopei faithful. He is called ‘Kvaradona’ in reference to Napoli legend Diego Maradona. Kvicha’s dribbling ability, close ball control, directness, ability to beat his defender in a 1v1, playmaking, goalscoring and hard work make him a special talent.

Video by Malkhaz Tchubabria (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGk9MXfib7I)

Kvaratshkelia has begun the season so brightly by helping Napoli to the top of the league in Serie A and leading them to the top spot in their Champions League. His superstar display against UEFA Champions League finalists Liverpool in Napoli’s 4-2 put him on the map. The left-winger currently has seven goals and four assists in just 14 appearances this season.

Image by Archysport.com

Similar Player Profile: Dimitri Payet and Lorenzo Insigne

Kvaratshkelia has similarities with both players in his game. He possesses the close control and flair of Payet and the directness and explosiveness of Insigne. He can also put up impressive output stats-wise, like those two, making him such a dangerous player.

Kvaratskhelia came out of nowhere and emerged as one of soccer’s latest superstar potential talents. I truly believe this will be a name that won’t be forgotten for a while. He will become a Napoli legend, or he will earn himself a big money move soon. So keep an eye out for this wonder kid because he is destined for greatness.