Napoli Fans Furious Over Kvaratskhelia's PSG Move
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's €70 million transfer to PSG sparks outrage among Napoli fans, who discard his images in protest.
Napoli fans have erupted in outrage following the news of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's imminent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Georgian winger, who played a key role in Napoli's recent successes, is reportedly finalizing a €70 million deal with the French giants. The transfer includes a lucrative four-and-a-half-year contract, with Kvaratskhelia set to earn €9 million annually, a significant upgrade from his current salary of €1.5 million at Napoli.
Napoli supporters, known for their passion and loyalty, have expressed their frustration in dramatic ways. In public squares across Naples, cardboard cutouts and images of Kvaratskhelia have been discarded into trash bins, symbolizing the fans' feelings of betrayal. A widely circulated video from Piazza Cavour showed one fan disposing of Kvaratskhelia’s picture, stating, "You signed the contract, so here’s where you belong—right in the trash."
The tension between Kvaratskhelia and Napoli fans had been simmering for months. Despite his pivotal role in the team, the player's dissatisfaction with his salary led to rumors of his departure. Napoli management reportedly tried to renegotiate his contract to reflect his contributions, but they failed to reach an agreement. This development left fans disheartened, with one remarking on social media, "How could we expect him to stay when he was only fifteenth on the salary list?"
Kvaratskhelia’s decision to leave Napoli marks a significant turning point for the club. The winger’s explosive pace, creativity, and goal-scoring ability made him one of the standout players in Serie A. Moving to PSG not only secures him a substantial financial upgrade but also offers him the chance to compete on a larger European stage with a club known for its Champions League aspirations.
As Napoli prepares to move forward without one of their star players, the fanbase’s reaction underscores the emotional bond between the club and its supporters. While Kvaratskhelia’s new journey in Ligue 1 promises exciting opportunities, the scars left in Naples will take time to heal.