Khvicha Kvaratskhelia looking forward to Napoli vs Real Madrid: “Grew up watching them on TV” | OneFootball

Real Madrid undertook a long and tiring journey to Naples as they take on Napoli later today in their second UEFA Champions League clash of the season. Amidst the hectic schedule, there is little respite.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men may be the slight favourites on the night courtesy of their legacy in the competition. Yet, it is clear that getting past the Serie A champions will require hard work.

Ahead of the blockbuster UCL clash, Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia spoke to AS in a detailed interview encompassing numerous topics. As part of the same, he revealed his excitement over facing Real Madrid.

“I grew up watching Madrid on TV and now they are my rival on the field, also in our stadium. Impossible not to be happy with a night like this.”

The youngster has been very vocal about Guti and Cristiano Ronaldo being his role models in the world of football. He reiterated the same in the interview earlier this week.

“I looked at them and tried to imitate their game, their feints, their shots. They inspired me.”

Kvaratskhelia was long-linked with a move to Real Madrid earlier this year. Amidst the links, his icon Guti connected with him and sent him an autographed shirt.

“I loved the way he played, I was looking at his plays throughout my childhood and I would never have imagined that one day, he would call me to discuss such a possibility.

“We also exchanged messages and it made me happy. It was like fulfilling the dream of the little ‘Khvicha’,” he said in the humbling moment.

The Georgian star then went on to praise the quality in Real Madrid’s squad with a special focus on Vinicius Jr.

“He [Vinicius] is very good, a huge talent: the best in this role. It will be a great experience to play against him and against the champions Real Madrid has.

“Modric, Bellingham, Kroos. I could name the entire staff. We respect them a lot, they are top-level players.”

Finally, the Napoli star warned Real Madrid that the team they would face tomorrow feared none and was capable of great things.

“[Real Madrid will see] A team that respects everyone, but is not afraid of anyone. We are the champions of Italy and we will do everything possible to win this match.”