Kvaratskhelia, the Napoli phenomenon seen by the New York Times-Corriere.it

“Kvaratskhelia? The most surprising footballer in Europe»: word of Rory Smith, chief soccer correspondent of the US newspaper New York Times. Author of the cult books «Expected Goals» and «Mister», Smith is one of the most authoritative names in international sport and his articles are loved by readers all over the world. From the glamor of the Champions League to the great popular novel of the World Cup, the «pen» of New York Times carefully observe the deeds of the most important European champions. In the last few hours Rory Smith has left Leeds for Naples to interview Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the spaces of the Grand Hotel Parker’s and tell about the cult that has developed around the Georgian footballer. “European football almost never reveals surprises – explained Smith, sipping his coffee -. The great champions are, of course, in the spotlight and keep their promises, scoring goals and earning the covers. But Kvara is different».

History

As revealed by the correspondent of the New York Times, the case of Kvaratskhelia is completely surprising, “anti-cyclical”, and this is the reason why the international newspaper has decided to tell its readers about it. «He was a practically unknown footballer until last summer – continues Smith – and within a few months he entered the hearts of fans from all over the world as well as being feared and respected by his opponents. A fascinating story, made up of talent and generosity, to which is added the territorial element linked to the personal cult of the footballer by the Neapolitans, starting with the puns Kvaravaggio and Kvaradona!». Affectionate but demanding, this last nickname given to the Georgian champion seems to give the measure of the bond that the Neapolitan fans have established with the attacker.

The interview

During the interview with the New York Times, Kvaratskhelia said he was happy and excited by this incredible wave of affection towards him. “The nickname “Kvaradona” Naturally, it also hides a great responsibility – comments Rory Smith -. It’s still a reference to the greatest player of all time.” In recent days, the British correspondent has visited Naples and will return to the Neapolitan capital in the coming weeks to talk about the city and the team; the attention of the international media has grown enormously, match after match, says Smith: «The international press is watching with increasing attention the phenomenon-Naples, a feared team even in England, to the point that a sort of mantra has been circulating in the football world for weeks: “if you go to play in Naples, the most important thing is to survive the team’s game and the shock wave from the Diego fans Armando Maradona”. According to reports from foreign newspaper correspondents, the decibels recorded during the Champions League anthem are unrivaled throughout Europe, as confirmed by Rory Smith himself: «I’m thinking of dedicating an article to Napoli’s goals seen through the seismographs in the city ».