Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, affectionately known as “Kvaradona,” continues to make history as he leads Georgia into their first-ever major tournament at the Euros. At just 23, the winger has already achieved remarkable feats and shows no signs of slowing down.
Kvaratskhelia began his career with Georgian side Dinamo Tbilisi before moving to Rustavi at 16. A brief stint in Russia ended due to the invasion of Ukraine, prompting his return to Georgia with Dinamo Batumi. His career skyrocketed after a bargain move to Napoli in 2022, where he scored 14 goals and provided 17 assists in his debut season, helping the Italian side win their first league title in 33 years. His performances earned him the nickname ‘Kvaradona,’ in tribute to the legendary Diego Maradona. Who led Napoli to their previous Scudetto.
Former Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti compared Kvaratskhelia to Liverpool star Mo Salah, praising his dribbling, ball control, and ability to handle pressure. “He has sensitivity in dribbling, caressing the ball, and executing feints that are hard to defend against. Mo Salah has similar qualities in tight spaces and precise finishing,” Spalletti said.
Now, Kvaratskhelia carries the hopes of an entire nation. Despite a 7-1 defeat to Spain in the Euros qualifying group, he found form at the right time, scoring four goals in three games to secure Georgia’s place in the playoffs. Victories over Luxembourg and Greece on penalties ensured their historic qualification, sparking celebrations across the country.
Aware of the expectations, Kvaratskhelia remains grounded. “Everyone looks at you as an example. Even in Georgia, the kids love me, so I have to be a role model. I have to be calm, humble, and give my best on and off the pitch,” he said.
As Georgia prepares to face Turkey, Czechia, and Portugal in the group stages, Kvaratskhelia is also linked with a big-money move to PSG. With Kylian Mbappe joining Real Madrid, PSG has reportedly placed a €100 million (£85m) bid for Kvaratskhelia, which would make him the most expensive Georgian footballer of all time.
Whether or not the deal goes through, Kvaratskhelia’s star continues to rise, with another chapter of his remarkable career set to unfold at Euro 2024.
Full Georgia Euro 2024 Squad:
- Goalkeepers: Mamardashvili, Loria, Gugeshashvili.
- Defenders: Kvirkvelia, Kashia, Gvelesiani, Dvali, Lochoshvili, Kakabadze, Gocholeishvili, Tabidze.
- Midfielders: Kochorashvili, Kiteishvili, Kvekveskiri, Chakvetadze, Tsitaishvili, Shengelia, Altunashvili, Mekvabishvili, Lobzhanidze, Davitashvili, Sigua.
- Attackers: Kvaratskhelia, Kvilitaia, Mikautadze, Zivzivadze.
Georgia Euro 2024 Fixtures:
- Turkey (Tues. Jun 18, 5pm)
- Czechia (Sat. Jun 22, 2pm)
- Portugal (Weds. Jun 26, 8pm)
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