Paris Saint-Germain’s winter signing still haunts Naples president

The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) pulled off one of its most shrewd winter transfers in January 2025, securing the services of Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for a hefty €70 million. The move, initially stalled by Napoli’s steep demands, reshaped PSG’s trajectory under Luis Enrique, culminating in a Champions League triumph that season. Yet, the ripple effects of this transfer continue to stir controversy, particularly in Naples, where president Aurelio De Laurentiis remains visibly frustrated by the loss of the player who had quickly become a fan favorite.

The arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia injected new energy into a PSG side that had narrowly missed out on Champions League glory in previous seasons. His impact was immediate, transforming the team’s attacking dynamics and proving instrumental in their continental success. For De Laurentiis, however, the departure remains a bitter pill to swallow, especially as he reflects on the player’s rapid ascent in Naples.

Naples president vents frustration over missed opportunity

In candid remarks, De Laurentiis expressed his disappointment, questioning the player’s commitment and the role of his representatives in the transfer saga. “In just one year in Naples, Kvara became a star. But he failed to honor his contractual obligations, which were poorly managed by his agents and family,” he stated. Drawing a sharp contrast, he dismissed comparisons to Diego Maradona, emphasizing the legendary status of the Argentine icon who embodied Naples’ heart and soul. “Maradona was incomparable, irreplaceable, and a true lover of the city. He was a priceless gem,” he added.

“Kvara resisted the siren’s call of Naples,” says De Laurentiis

The Naples president went on to paint a vivid metaphor, likening Naples’ allure to the mythical sirens of Greek antiquity. “Naples, born over 2,500 years ago as Parthenope, carries the essence of a siren. Yet Kvara, like Ulysses, plugged his ears to resist her enchanting song,” he quipped, suggesting the player was swayed by Parisian promises rather than the deep-rooted passion of Naples. His words underscore the lingering resentment over a transfer that reshaped the footballing landscape of Europe.