Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 21, 2025
As the football world enters 2025, few stars have risen with the kind of electric flair, cultural resonance, and meteoric impact as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Nicknamed “Kvaradona” —a fusion of his surname and the legendary Diego Maradona—this Georgian maestro has become the heartbeat of SSC Napoli, a national icon for Georgia, and one of the most exhilarating wingers in world football.
From humble beginnings in Tbilisi to dazzling the stadiums of Serie A and beyond, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s journey is a modern football fairy tale.
Then: The Boy from Tbilisi – A Dream Forged in Adversity (2001–2022)
1. Early Life and Roots in Georgia
Born on February 12, 2001, in Tbilisi, Georgia, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia grew up in a football-loving family. His father, Badri Kvaratskhelia, was a former professional player, and his older brother, Mikheil, also pursued a football career. Football wasn’t just a game—it was a family legacy.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia joined Dinamo Tbilisi’s youth academy at a young age, quickly standing out for his explosive dribbling, close control, and fearless creativity. By 2017, at just 16 years old, he made his professional debut for FC Dinamo Tbilisi, becoming one of the youngest players in the Erovnuli Liga.
2. Early Career: Russia, Poland, and a Struggle for Stability
In 2019, seeking greater competition, Kvaratskhelia moved to Russia, signing with FC Rubin Kazan. Though he showed flashes of brilliance, he struggled to secure a consistent starting role. After a brief loan to FC Lokomotiv Moscow, he was transferred to FC Rostov in 2021.
Still, he wasn’t reaching his potential.
In 2022, he made a pivotal move to Poland, joining Raków Częstochowa on loan. There, under coach Czesław Michniewicz, he rediscovered his form:
- Scored 7 goals and 8 assists in 22 appearances
- Won the Polish Cup and Super Cup
- Became a fan favorite for his flair and work rate
It was a turning point. Scouts across Europe began to take notice.
Related: Adrien Rabiot Then and Now
The Rise: The Napoli Revolution (2022–2024)
1. A Dream Move to Napoli – The Birth of “Kvaradona”
In July 2022, SSC Napoli signed Kvaratskhelia for a modest €10 million from Dinamo Batumi. Few outside Italy knew his name. But within months, the world would.
Under manager Luciano Spalletti, Kvaratskhelia was deployed as a left-winger in a 4-3-3, where his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability exploded onto the global stage.
2. Historic 2022–23 Season – Serie A Champion
Kvaratskhelia’s debut season was nothing short of legendary:
- 12 goals and 13 assists in 30 Serie A appearances
- Named Serie A Player of the Season (2022–23)
- Played a pivotal role in Napoli’s first Scudetto in 33 years
- Scored crucial goals against AC Milan, Inter, and Roma
His signature move—cutting inside from the left onto his right foot, evading defenders with a step-over, and unleashing a curling shot—became iconic.
Fans in Naples draped him in Maradona’s number 10 scarf, chanting “Kvaradona!” —a symbol of love and legacy.
3. European Breakthrough
In the 2023–24 UEFA Champions League, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia led Napoli’s charge into the quarterfinals, scoring against Liverpool and Barcelona. His performances earned him a place in the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season.
He also won the Pallone Azzurro (Napoli’s Player of the Year) and was shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or, finishing in the top 15—the highest-ranking Georgian in history.
Related: Josko Gvardiol Then and Now
Now: A Global Icon in 2025
1. Napoli’s Undisputed Star
By 2025, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is no longer just a rising talent—he is Napoli’s talisman and one of the most feared wingers in Europe. Despite intense interest from Real Madrid, Manchester City, and PSG, he has committed his future to Napoli, signing a contract extension through 2028.
In the 2024–25 season, he continues to dominate:
- 15 goals and 12 assists in 28 appearances (as of April 2025)
- Leading Napoli’s charge for a second Scudetto in three years
- Developing a lethal partnership with new signing Victor Osimhen and rising star Amir Rrahmani
His game has evolved:
- Improved defensive contribution
- Greater positional intelligence
- More consistent finishing
2. Ballon d’Or Contender and Marketability
By 2025, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is firmly among the top 10 Ballon d’Or candidates, recognized not just for stats, but for entertainment value, leadership, and cultural impact.
He has become a global brand ambassador, partnering with:
- Nike – Featured in global campaigns
- EA Sports – Cover athlete for FC 25 in select regions
- Hublot, Pepsi, and Georgian tourism boards
His signature curly hair, radiant smile, and flamboyant style have made him a fashion icon in Italy and beyond.
3. Hero of the Georgian National Team
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s greatest triumph came in June 2024, when he led Georgia to their first-ever appearance at UEFA Euro 2024.
Despite being underdogs, Georgia stunned the world by advancing to the Round of 16, with Khvicha scoring the winning goal against Portugal in the group stage.
The nation erupted in celebration. Streets in Tbilisi flooded with fans. The government declared a national holiday. Kvaratskhelia was hailed as a national savior.
By 2025, he is Georgia’s all-time leading scorer and captain of the national team, inspiring a new generation of players in a country long overlooked in international football.
Related: Phil Foden Then and Now
Personal Life and Cultural Impact
Known for his humble demeanor, strong family values, and deep connection to Georgia, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia remains grounded despite fame. He lives with his wife Sofia, whom he married in 2023, and frequently visits his hometown to support youth academies and local charities.
He is also a cultural ambassador:
- Promotes Georgian language, wine, and heritage globally
- Funded the renovation of a youth football center in Tbilisi
- Advocates for investment in Georgian sports infrastructure
His rise has sparked a football renaissance in Georgia, with record youth participation and increased international attention on the Erovnuli Liga.
Playing Style: The Modern Winger Perfected
Kvaratskhelia’s game is a blend of:
- Explosive dribbling – among the best in the world at beating defenders 1v1
- Close ball control – reminiscent of Maradona and Ronaldinho
- Vision and creativity – capable of both goals and assists
- Fearless mentality – thrives in high-pressure moments
He plays with joy, flair, and confidence, embodying the spirit of attacking football.
Related: Raphinha Then and Now
Legacy in the Making (2025 and Beyond)
As of 2025, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia stands at the peak of his powers. He is:
- One of the top 5 wingers in the world
- A symbol of Georgian pride and resilience
- A role model for underdog talents everywhere
- On the verge of becoming a true global superstar
His journey—from a little-known player in Eastern Europe to a crowned hero in Naples and Tbilisi—is a testament to talent, perseverance, and belief.
Conclusion: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Then and Now
- Then: A young Georgian with promise, bouncing between clubs, searching for his moment.
- Now: A Serie A champion, European sensation, national hero, and global icon—carrying the hopes of a nation on his shoulders and a smile on his face.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s story is not just about football.
It’s about dreams defying odds, talent meeting opportunity, and a boy from Tbilisi becoming a king in Naples.
As he continues to dance past defenders, score magical goals, and inspire millions, one thing is certain:
The world hasn’t seen the best of Kvaradona yet.
And when it does?
It will be beautiful, unforgettable, and historic.
✨ “I play for Georgia. I play for Napoli. I play for every kid who was told they’re too small, too slow, too unknown.” – Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Related: Mason Mount Then and Now