Why Kvaratskhelia looked unhappy after Napoli substitution | OneFootball

Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia looked distressed after his substitution in a 2-0 win over Monza on Sunday, but it was nothing against Antonio Conte as Il Corriere dello Sport explains that the Georgian ace feels frustrated by treatment from referees.

Kvara has had a brilliant start to the season under Antonio Conte at Napoli, scoring three goals and providing two assists in six Serie A matches this term.

The 23-year-old got his name on the scoresheet in a 2-0 home victory against Monza on Sunday but still looked unhappy when Conte replaced him at minute 75.

Monday’s printed edition of Corriere dello Sport on page 7 explained Kvaratskhelia’s reaction insisting that it had nothing to do with his coach’s decision.

Why Kvaratskhelia looked unhappy after Napoli substitution

According to the report, the Georgian ace feels unprotected by referees, given the number of fouls he suffers in every game. According to Sofascore, Kvara has been fouled 2.3 times per game on average this season.

Conte had already complained about how Kvara was treated by opponents before a 0-0 draw against Juventus two weeks ago.

Conte accused Napoli’s previous opponent, Cagliari, of making an ‘intimidatory’ foul on the Georgian star at the very beginning of their latest Serie A meeting.

“Referees should not be afraid of giving yellow or red cards,” the Italian tactician said.

“If a player’s safety is at risk, there must be a sanction, whether the foul was committed after 30 seconds or 95 minutes. I don’t want to think that the Cagliari player wanted to hurt Kvara, but I think he deserved a yellow card. A sanction means protecting the game and the best talents.”