In January 2025, Paris Saint-Germain executed one of the most astute moves of the winter transfer window. The Parisian club secured the services of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli for a substantial €70 million. This pivotal signing dramatically reshaped PSG’s season, a decision that Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, continues to find difficult to accept.
This acquisition stands as one of PSG‘s most significant coups in recent years. During the 2025 winter transfer period, the capital club committed €70 million to bring Khvicha Kvaratskhelia over from Naples, just six months after being deterred by the Italian club’s initial demands. Clearly, this transfer transformed the dynamic of Luis Enrique‘s squad, which went on to clinch the Champions League title last season. This season, the Georgian international has ascended to even greater heights, establishing himself as PSG‘s linchpin in the Champions League. Such stellar performance only deepens the sense of regret for Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis.
de laurentiis still processing kvaratskhelia’s departure
“In just one year at Naples, Kvara blossomed into a star. However, he was unwilling to honor his contractual obligations, which I believe were poorly managed by his agents and family. Any comparison of him to Maradona only brings a smile to my face. Maradona is beyond compare, truly unique, and irreplaceable. Even as a person, he was extraordinary and a devoted admirer of Naples and Napoli. He was a billion-carat jewel!” he expressed, before continuing his remarks.
“in one year at naples, kvara became a star”
“I highly doubt that the affection in Paris could ever rival the inherent charm of a city like Naples. Naples was founded 2,500 years ago under the name Parthenope, which in ancient Greek also means siren. Ultimately, Kvara acted like Ulysses. He sealed his ears with wax to avoid being enchanted by the siren song of Naples and to ignore our offers for a contract extension,” Aurelio De Laurentiis added, reflecting on the transfer.
