Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is a player Liverpool must watch out for this week. The 21-year-old is their latest breakout star.
Liverpool travel to take on Napoli for their opening Champions League fixture on Wednesday. It’s a big one, of course, as the Reds may see the Italians as their chief rivals for top spot. Ajax may argue that, however.
But there’s little doubt that Liverpool must get off to a good start. They’re struggling to do so in the Premier League and a win here can quickly make the campaign feel more positive.
Napoli, though, have players to worry about. We picked out one when the draw was made – Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian is a one-man attack at times with all he brings to their side. But he’s certainly not the only player to worry about.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is taking Serie A by storm and could prove a serious threat to Liverpool this week.
Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Kvaratskhelia move to Napoli in the summer, replacing Lorenzo Insigne in their XI. That’s a tall order, of course – especially for a 21-year-old coming out of the Russia league without much of a reputation.
But Kvaratskhelia has been a revelation. He’s scored four times in four starts to kick off life in Serie A, with an assist in there, too.
It’s his overall game that catches the eye, though. Kvaratskhelia shows great control, wonderful timing with his runs and brilliant movement coming off that left flank. His finishing is up to scratch to top it all off.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who we presume will play right-back, will have his hands full. The hope will be that Liverpool’s right-back can push Kvaratskhelia back and worry the winger more than he can worry the Reds’ flank.
And who knows? Maybe Liverpool can use this as a chance to scout the player. Kvaratskhelia has openly talked about a desire to work with Jurgen Klopp, and this form may pique the Reds’ interest in granting that wish.
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