<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kvicha-kvaratskhelia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia</strong></a> has established as one of <strong>PSG</strong>’s standout players. In their dominant victory in the Champions League semifinals first leg, the 25-year-old star scored a brace, emerging as the leader of the team’s attack with his vision and dribbling ability. Although Ousmane Dembélé stole the spotlight by winning MVP award of the game, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ac-milan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AC Milan</a> legend Clarence Seedorf praised the Georgian, hailing him as the best player in the world.</strong></p>



<p><em>“<strong>Kvaratskhelia is the best player in the world and he’s only going to get better.</strong> I don’t know if he will stay on the left side because he just knows what to do in every situation. <strong>He carries the team in certain moments so I like his intelligence.</strong> He’s the extra man in midfield and also goes to make a difference up front. <strong>He’s unbelievable</strong>,”</em> <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/clarence-seedorf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seedorf</a> said, via Amazon Prime.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PSG</a> head coach Luis Enrique has clearly elevated Kvaratskhelia’s level. Throughout the current season, <strong>he has scored 18 goals and provided 9 assists in 43 matches</strong>, marking his best campaign statistically. However, <strong>the Georgian’s impact goes far beyond the numbers, as he acts as the orchestrator of the attack</strong>, rotating positions with Dembélé and Désiré Doué while bringing out the best in his teammates.</p>



<p><strong>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has put in an impressive performance in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League</strong>, emerging as a strong contender for the tournament’s best player. <strong>He has recorded 15 goal contributions in the 14 games he has played, matching Harry Kane’s tally and surpassing Ousmane Dembélé. </strong>Recognizing his importance, head coach Luis Enrique considers him irreplaceable on the team, as he is a well-rounded player capable of breaking down any defense.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/04/14113331/PSG-Liverpool-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris Saint-Germain goes around Giorgi Mamardashvili of Liverpool to score a goal." class="wp-image-636050"><figcaption>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris Saint-Germain goes around Giorgi Mamardashvili of Liverpool to score a goal.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kvaratskhelia may not have an easy path for the 2026 Ballon d’Or</h2>



<p>After his outstanding performances with Paris Saint-Germain, <strong>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia </strong>could easily emerge as one of the <strong>leading candidates to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.</strong> However, <strong>the Georgian may not have an easy path to the award, as his national team will not be at the World Cup</strong>, potentially allowing players like Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and even Luis Díaz to move ahead of him.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/psg-vs-bayern-munich-live-updates-minute-by-minute-coverage-of-the-2025-26-champions-league-semifinals-first-leg/"></div>


<p>Even if Kvaratskhelia leads PSG to a second consecutive UEFA Champions League title, he could lose significant ground in the Ballon d’Or race due to his absence from the World Cup. In that context, <strong>players like Dembélé or Doué could strengthen their cases if they shine with France</strong>. Likewise, <strong>the MVP or top scorer of the tournament could become a decisive factor in determining the winner</strong>, putting the Georgian at a disadvantage.</p>



<p>hether he wins the 2026 Ballon d’Or or not, <strong>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia</strong> has already earned his place among the best players in the world, being recognized by several players and coaches. <strong>Not only does his goalscoring impact stand out, but his presence also elevates those around him</strong>, making him a unique difference-maker for PSG and for Luis Enrique, who has established him as a cornerstone of the club’s sporting project.</p>


AC Milan legend Clarence Seedorf ranks PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as ‘the best player in the world’

AC Milan legend Clarence Seedorf ranks PSG's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as 'the best player in the world' - World Soccer Talk

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<p><strong>Paris Saint-Germain</strong> managed to defeat <strong>Bayern Munich</strong> in the first leg of the <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/champions-league/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025–26 Champions League semifinals</a>.</strong> While the French side caused damage through counterattacks, the German side dominated with an impressive build-up game that stood out throughout the match. Although both teams were effective in front of goal, <strong>braces from Ousmane Dembélé and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kvicha-kvaratskhelia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Khvicha Kvaratskhelia</a> decided the game</strong>, giving Luis Enrique’s side the advantage.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/bayern-munich/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bayern Munich</a> started the match in top form, dominating possession against the French side’s pressure and creating several scoring chances. In fact, <strong>an individual play from Luis Díaz resulted in a penalty after a foul by Willian Pacho</strong>. With his vast experience, <strong>Harry Kane converted the spot kick, giving his team the lead early in the game.</strong> However, their joy was short-lived, as they conceded two quick goals.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">HARRY KANE IS INEVITABLE 😤💥 <a href="https://t.co/SXX1iNH5aU">pic.twitter.com/SXX1iNH5aU</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2049208168933200279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Far from being shaken by Bayern’s early strike, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PSG</a> quickly identified their opponent’s main weakness: The space behind the defensive line.</strong> From there, Désiré Doué delivered an excellent through ball to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who skillfully dribbled past Josip Stanišić to create space. <strong>With a superb finish, the Georgian found the equalizer, beating Manuel Neuer.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">IT HAD TO BE HIM! 😤<br><br>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia dances past his defender and fires home the equalizer for PSG 💥 <a href="https://t.co/GLILzypgEs">pic.twitter.com/GLILzypgEs</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2049210268899582078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Building on their strong momentum, the French side managed to score another goal just two minutes later. After an excellent corner from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ousmane-dembele/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ousmane Dembélé</a>, <strong>João Neves headed the ball, firing a powerful effort past Neuer to give PSG the lead</strong>. Although <strong>Michael Olise scored a fine goal </strong>to level the match for Bayern Munich, Dembélé restored his team’s advantage in the first half with a well-taken penalty.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">MICHAEL OLISE IS UNSTOPPABLE 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/e9JQDj7cdd">pic.twitter.com/e9JQDj7cdd</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2049215113819791587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Kvaratskhelia, Dembele braces overshadow Luis Diaz impressive goal</h2>



<p>Shortly after the start of the second half, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia extended PSG’s lead. Following a through ball from Vitinha, <strong>Achraf Hakimi received possessio</strong>n, beat Luis Díaz, and delivered an excellent cross. Although two teammates failed to connect, <strong>the Georgian winger arrived from the left flank to finish and beat Manuel Neuer with a low and strong strike.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/psg-and-bayern-munich-deliver-nine-goal-thriller-in-champions-league-is-it-the-highest-scoring-semifinal-ever/"></div>


<p>Capitalizing on Bayern Munich’s defensive lapse, PSG scored their fifth goal just two minutes after the previous one. <strong>Following an excellent team move led by Désiré Doué,</strong> who dribbled past Jonathan Tah, <strong>he played a pass to Ousmane Dembélé on the left flank</strong>. Showcasing his quality, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner received the ball, beat his marker again, and created space before firing a <strong>powerful low shot past Manuel Neuer once more.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">TWO GOALS IN THREE MINUTES 🤯<br><br>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé BOTH double their tallies in the game ⚡ <a href="https://t.co/k5ip2FuIdn">pic.twitter.com/k5ip2FuIdn</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2049224679462772965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Despite these two early goals, the German side maintained their attacking approach, managing to pull one back with a great header by Dayot Upamecano. Four minutes later, <strong>Luis Díaz scored one of the best goals of the season.</strong> After a long pass from Harry Kane, <strong>the Colombian controlled the ball first-time, dribbling past Marquinhos twice and firing a powerful shot into the top corner past Matev Safonov.</strong> However, they remained one goal short of tying the match.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE TOUCH. THE FINISH. 🫠<br><br>Luis Díaz brings Bayern Munich back to within one goal with a special strike 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/rs5BlKrgc5">pic.twitter.com/rs5BlKrgc5</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2049228589011283975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia lead PSG victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League Semifinals First Leg

Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia lead PSG victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League Semifinals First Leg - World Soccer Talk

<p>Forty-two nations have already booked their ticket to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/world-cup/"><strong>2026 World Cup</strong></a>, the first edition of the tournament to be staged across three countries and the first to feature 48 teams. Still, several world-class stars will not be making the trip to North America, with <strong>PSG’s </strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/khvicha-kvaratskhelia/"><strong>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia</strong></a><strong> and Liverpool’s </strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/dominik-szoboszlai/"><strong>Dominik Szoboszlai</strong></a><strong> among the most valuable players set to miss the competition</strong>.</p>



<p><strong>Only six spots remain for the 2026 World Cup</strong>, and teams qualified through UEFA and intercontinental playoffs will battle for those places in the March 2026 international window. More top-tier names, including players from Italy and Turkey, could join the list, but with the group stage of all confederation qualifiers now complete, several major stars have already been eliminated.</p>



<h2>Who are the most expensive stars that’ll miss the World Cup?</h2>



<h3>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – €90M</h3>



<p>With a market value of €90 million (<em>Transfermarkt</em>), <strong>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is the most valuable player who will miss the 2026 World Cup</strong>. Georgia finished third in Group E behind Spain and Turkey with just three points, falling short of a playoff berth and leaving the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/"><strong>PSG</strong></a> winger out of the tournament.</p>



<h3>Dominik Szoboszlai – €85M</h3>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/liverpool/"><strong>Liverpool</strong></a>’s Dominik Szoboszlai is also among the most valuable players sidelined from the World Cup. In a dramatic Group F finish, <strong>Hungary collapsed against Ireland</strong>, with Troy Parrott scoring a hat trick in a shocking comeback that sent Hungary down to third place and out of contention.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/11/20150724/dominik-szoboszlai-hungary-1920x1080.webp" alt="Dominik Szoboszlai of Hungary reacts after losing against Republic of Ireland." class="wp-image-605383"></figure></div><figcaption>Dominik Szoboszlai of Hungary reacts after losing against Republic of Ireland.</figcaption></figure>



<h3>Victor Osimhen – €75M</h3>



<p><strong>Victor Osimhen</strong>, the current leading scorer in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, will also miss the World Cup. <strong>DR Congo secured qualification against Nigeria in a tense playoff</strong> decided on penalties after a 1–1 draw through 120 minutes, a match in which Osimhen squandered a clear chance to send the Super Eagles through.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/report-fifa-makes-final-decision-on-team-rosters-for-world-cup-2026-despite-coaches-wishes/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20251120_WST_605341_World-Cup-2026.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="FIFA reportedly stood firm on its decision regarding the rosters for next year’s World Cup.
" title="Report: FIFA makes final decision on team rosters for World Cup 2026 despite coaches’ wishes" publication_id="WST#/news/report-fifa-makes-final-decision-on-team-rosters-for-world-cup-2026-despite-coaches-wishes/"></div>


<h3>Benjamin Sesko – €70M</h3>



<p><strong>Benjamin Sesko</strong> is another star striker who won’t be heading to the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. <strong>Slovenia ended its UEFA qualifying campaign with four points</strong> from six matches and no wins, finishing behind group leaders Switzerland and Kosovo.</p>



<h3>Bryan Mbeumo €70M</h3>



<p><strong>Bryan Mbeumo</strong> is another Premier League standout who will miss the World Cup. Along with Nigeria, <strong>Cameroon fell to DR Congo in the CAF semifinal playoffs</strong>, losing 1–0 as Mbeumo’s side was eliminated just shy of the final qualifying stage.</p>


PSG’s Kvaratskhelia, Liverpool’s Szoboszlai and more: The most expensive players set to miss the 2026 World Cup

PSG’s Kvaratskhelia, Liverpool’s Szoboszlai and more: The most expensive players set to miss the 2026 World Cup - World Soccer Talk

<p>As one of Europe’s most exciting players, Napoli are hell-bent on keeping Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, for the foreseeable future. </p>



<p>Apparently, Aurelio De Laurentiis, the club president, and Giovanni Manna, the director, took a bold step by traveling to Germany to meet with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelona-take-further-steps-to-secure-serie-a-star-in-summer/">Kvaratskhelia</a> and his agent. </p>



<p>This meeting intended to provide the Georgian player with a big contract offer; all in the hopes that he would commit to Napoli for the long haul.</p>



<p>The Partenopei reportedly offered a new deal for $5.3 million a year; with it rising to $7.5 million in the latter years of the deal. The deal would run until 2029, according to Il <a href="https://www.corrieredellosport.it/news/calcio/calcio-mercato/napoli/2024/06/29-129658943/napoli_all-in_su_kvara_la_mossa_che_puo_cambiare_tutto?primo-piano" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Corriere dello Sport</a>.</p>



<p>This offer reflects <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states">Napoli</a>’s high regard for Kvaratskhelia and their desire to keep him at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Corriere and <a href="https://sport.sky.it/calciomercato/2024/06/27/kvaratskhelia-napoli-calciomercato-news-intervista" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sky Sport Italia</a> both characterized the conference in Dusseldorf as pleasant and easygoing; suggesting a productive environment regardless of the result.</p>



<p>But despite the positive tone of the meeting, Kvaratskhelia and his entourage supposedly decided to reject the initial offer. The reports say that he communicated to Napoli that any further negotiations would be postponed until after the Euros. </p>



<p>This decision leaves a cloud of uncertainty over Kvaratskhelia’s future at the club. The player’s reluctance to commit at this stage suggests that he is keeping his options open, potentially eyeing opportunities elsewhere.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="568" height="390" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/16040331/image-24-568x390.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-514222" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kvaratskhelia is having an impressive UEFA Euro 2024.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Interest from PSG and England takes toll?</h2>



<p>The uncertainty surrounding Kvaratskhelia’s future has attracted interest from several top European clubs. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">Paris Saint-Germain</a> have reportedly shown a keen interest in the Georgian winger. </p>



<p>However, De Laurentiis has accused the French side’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, of contacting Kvaratskhelia without Napoli’s consent. It only adds another layer of complexity to the situation.</p>



<p>Additionally, there are strong indications that the 23-year-old has his sights set on a move to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a>. Sources close to the player have suggested that he has turned down PSG’s advances because he <a href="https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/liverpool-transfer-news-live-29443399" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prefers a move to England</a>, with Liverpool being one of the interested clubs.</p>



<h2>Big mess started by player’s entourage</h2>



<p>Kvaratskhelia’s father and his representatives’ remarks just <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/napoli-stars-agent-says-client-may-leave-club-in-massive-move/">added fuel to the fire</a> of confusion. Earlier this month, the player’s agent, Mamuka Jugeli, publicly stated that they were considering leaving Napoli, but a final decision would be made after the Euros.</p>



<p>This prompted a response from the Italians, emphasizing that Kvaratskhelia was not on the market and that they were committed to keeping him at the club. Kvaratskhelia himself has remained non-committal, acknowledging his respect for the club and the coach. However, he stated that he needs more time to decide on his future.</p>



<p>Napoli are in a delicate position as they navigate the contract negotiations with Kvaratskhelia. The club’s leadership is adamant that the player will not leave this summer, as he is under contract until June 2027. </p>



<p>However, the possibility of losing their star winger to a top European club remains a significant concern. The situation underscores the broader challenges Napoli faces in retaining top talent amid interest from wealthier clubs in Europe.</p>



<p>Photo credit: IMAGO / AOP.Press</p>


Future abroad? Talks between Kvaratskhelia and Napoli halted

As one of Europe's most exciting players, Napoli are hell-bent on keeping their winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, for the foreseeable future.

Future abroad? Talks between Kvaratskhelia and Napoli halted - World Soccer Talk

<p>Once again, Napoli’s already difficult championship defense took a nosedive, adding fuel to the fire. Thus far this season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/sassuolo-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers">Napoli</a> have had nothing but trouble. </p>



<p>Since the club has had three different coaches this season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/napoli-names-walter-mazzarri-as-replacement-for-rudi-garcia-20231114-WST-470045.html">Walter Mazzarri</a> is the current head coach. They won the Scudetto the previous year under Luciano Spalletti.</p>



<p>However, they have had a difficult season so far, and their most recent loss, 3-0 against Torino, pushed them down to ninth position in the league.</p>



<h2>Napoli in disarray as Osimhen clashes with agent of Kvaratskhelia</h2>



<p>Another problem, this one off the field, has just emerged. The ball began rolling on Tuesday when <a href="https://www.gazzetta.it/Calciomercato/09-01-2024/calciomercato-le-notizie-del-9-gennaio-dragusin-verso-il-bayern-bonucci-in-orbita-genoa.shtml?refresh_ce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mamuka Jugeli</a>, the agent for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, discussed his client’s Napoli teammate, forward Victor Osimhen.</p>



<p>In a roundabout way, he said that the Nigerian lacked ambition. In contrast to his client Kvaratskhelia, he said that the striker will go to Saudi Arabia for financial reasons.</p>



<p>“Osimhen signed a new contract, but do you really think he will play for Napoli for his entire career? I’m telling you now, he will go to play in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-saudi-arabia-pro-league-from-usa-20221231-WST-414004.html">Saudi Arabia</a> in the summer. Napoli increased Osimhen’s contract, but Khvicha would not accept a transfer to Saudi not even if I offered him a billion.”</p>



<p>“For example, he would prefer to play for Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona or maybe Manchester City. Kvaratskhelia has different objectives and preferences.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/01/16050728/Osimhen-Kvara-spat-1200x670-1200x670.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-482992" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>It was obvious that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/chelsea-wants-to-sign-napolis-osimhen-at-all-costs-20231209-WST-476184.html">Osimhen</a> didn’t like what his teammate’s agent had to say. He took to social media to vent his frustration while being away with his national side, Nigeria, at the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/africa-cup-of-nations-tv-schedule/">Africa Cup of Nations</a>. In addition, the 25-year-old gave Jugeli a strong warning not to bring up his name in vague, hypothetical discussions.</p>



<p>“Dear Mamuka Jugeli, you are a piece of filth and a disgrace,” “I’m embarrassed at your sense of reasoning. Dumbf—! KEEP MY NAME OUT OF YOUR MOUTH!!!”, the star responded via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/victorosimhen9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Instagram story</a>.</p>



<h2>How did Osimhen’s agent respond?</h2>



<p>Roberto Calenda, who represents Osimhen, also <a href="https://twitter.com/RobertoCalenda/status/1745022821607030995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1745022821607030995%7Ctwgr%5E93af1c0743550c5576e0af0d6b5570ce3e83609c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsbrief.com%2Ffootball%2F56308-roberto-calenda-osimhens-agent-blasts-kvaratskhelias-agent-talking-napoli-striker%2F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fired back against Jugeli</a>, calling his remarks “bad, superficial, and unacceptable.”</p>



<p>In particular, Calenda was worried that the player would face unjustified criticism from Napoli’s die-hard fans as a result of these rumors. He emphasized that Osimhen’s dedication to Napoli is unwavering, particularly considering his recent contract extension.</p>



<p>“Everyone must look into their own home and have respect for the work of others. It is not correct to talk about the future of other players. This creates misunderstandings and problems as well as unfortunate predictions.</p>



<p>“The alleged words of agent Mamuka Jugeli are bad, superficial and unacceptable. These words create problems for my player Victor Osimhen with Napoli fans without any reason of the reality. We have just signed a contract renewal and Victor’s only wish, in addition to the Africa Cup of Nations, is to help Napoli. Everything else is rubbish”.</p>



<p>Although this isn’t directly related to the feud between the two players, it’s still bad news for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-serie-a-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Serie A</a> team. Ultimately, the duo remain the global ambassadors for the squad.</p>



<p>With Kvaratskhelia and Osimhen as key players, Napoli was able to win the Scudetto last season. Although Kvara was regarded as the year’s finest acquisition, the Nigerian was crowned Most Valuable Player.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>


Big spat between Osimhen and Kvaratskhelia's agent at Napoli

Angry with Kvicha Kvaratskhelia's agent, star striker Victor Osimhen slammed him on social media on Wednesday.

<p>Napoli playmaker Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is perhaps one of the most sought-after young players in the world at the moment, with Chelsea and Manchester United targeting the Georgian. The 22-year-old burst onto the scene last season as a relatively unknown player. The reigning <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/serie-a-tv-schedule/">Serie A</a> champions previously plucked Kvaratskhelia from Georgian side Dinamo Batumi for around $14 million in July of 2022. </p>



<p>Despite only playing in the Italian top flight for just over one season, the star is now potentially worth six or seven times his previous transfer fee. Kvaratskhelia was an instant success with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states/">Napoli</a>. He managed to score 14 goals and add 17 assists in his first campaign with the club. His stellar play earned him Serie A Most Valuable Player last season. He was also the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/champions-league-tv-schedule/">UEFA Champions League</a> Young Player of the Season.</p>



<h2>Chelsea and United among EPL clubs in the hunt for Kvaratskhelia</h2>



<p>There does not seem to be a sophomore slump for Kvaratskhelia either. The Georgia international has already racked up three goals and five assists during the current campaign. This impressive display has forced other top teams to take notice.</p>



<p><em><a href="https://www.90min.com/posts/chelsea-man-city-man-utd-newcastle-khvicha-kvaratskhelia-scouting-trip" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">90 Min</a></em> is reporting that a host of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> clubs have recently sent scouts to watch Kvaratskhelia play. The news source claims that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/the-history-of-manchester-united-vs-manchester-city-gary-james-interview-video-20130406-CMS-52551.html">Manchester City</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/newcastle-united-tv-schedule/">Newcastle</a> all had representatives at a recent Georgia match. The eastern European team played juggernaut <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/spain-national-team-tv-schedule/">Spain</a> in front of over 24,000 fans on Sunday. Some of these spectators were scouts.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/16052857/Kvara-Georgia-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-471788" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"><figcaption>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has rapidly emerged as one of the best players in Europe, and he is still just 22 years old.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Although Georgia ended up losing the game 3-1 on the night, Kvaratskhelia did make a good impression. The winger scored his team’s only goal of the game in the 10th minute. It is already his 15th goal for his country in just 28 total senior appearances.</p>



<h2>Napoli, Kvara hoping to finalize new contract</h2>



<p>While plenty of big clubs would love to sign Kvaratskhelia, Napoli is quite happy with their star. The Italian outfit’s owner and president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is already tired of the player’s transfer speculation. </p>



<p>The businessman was recently asked about Kvaratskhelia’s future at the club. “Do you want to stop it? He already signed for five years last summer,” <a href="https://www.90min.com/posts/chelsea-man-city-man-utd-newcastle-khvicha-kvaratskhelia-scouting-trip" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">replied</a> De Laurentiis.</p>



<p>He signed with Napoli last year. Kvaratskhelia and Napoli are discussing contract extensions right now. The attacker hopes to secure a new and improved long-term deal. His agent, Mamuka Jugeli, recently acknowledged that the two sides will finalize an agreement soon. This, however, assumes that De Laurentiis follows through on his end of the deal.</p>



<p>“There will soon be an improvement to his contract,” Jugeli <a href="https://football-italia.net/kvaratskhelia-agent-trusts-napoli-on-new-contract/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">told</a> Georgian outlet <em>Sport Imedi</em>. “De Laurentiis is a good man, a man who keeps his word, and has already done very good things for us. Clearly, Kvara is a top-level player and deserves more, but he will receive that very soon.”</p>



<p>“His family is satisfied and so is Kvara. He has improved so much since coming to Napoli, in my view he is even better than last season. Kvara can play in any attacking role.”</p>



<p>Kvaratskhelia, like other internationals, will soon return to their respective clubs to resume domestic competitions. Napoli faces <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atalanta-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Atalanta</a> on Saturday, Nov. 25. Gli Azzurri will attempt to leapfrog <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ac-milan-tv-schedule/">AC Milan</a> for third place in the table by the end of the weekend.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>


Chelsea and United scout Napoli star as contract talks continue

Four Premier League teams sent scouts to watch Napoli's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia feature for Georgia against Spain at the weekend.

<p>Across Europe’s top-five leagues, Victor Osimhen is a major reason for why Napoli is the most in-form team with dominance domestically and continentally. The Nigerian striker, combining seamlessly with Georgian Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, has 18 goals. That is five better than second-place Lautaro Martínez at Inter Milan. More impressive, though, is that Osimhen has done it in four fewer games than the Argentine.</p>



<p>The reward for Napoli is a 15 point gap lead on Martínez and Inter Milan in the race for the Scudetto. In Europe, Osimhen and Napoli blitzed through their Champions League group that had Liverpool and Ajax. The only falter in that group was a loss at Anfield, 2-0. In European play, Osimhen added to his tally with a goal against Ajax. He did, however, miss half of those games with either injury or substitute status.</p>



<p>The Nigerian’s rise has pundits and coaches alike naming him among the top strikers in the world, not just Italy. Here is how he went from the Belgian Pro League to Serie A leader in just five years.</p>



<h5>Osimhen’s beginnings</h5>



<p>Victor Osimhen first made headlines with a magical 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup performance. The Ultimate Strikers Academy phenom won the Golden Boot when he scored ten goals and had two assists in seven matches. Nigeria trounced the likes of Croatia, the United States and mighty Brazil to win the tournament. Success at the U-17 World Cup earned Osimhen a deal with Wolfsburg. He began training with the first team not long after. </p>



<p>He did not see a lot of game time with Wolfsburg as they battled through relegation scares to stay afloat. In two years with the Germans, Osimhen made 15 total appearances and scored no goals. He moved on loan to Belgian side RSC Charleroi, where he earned both lots of minutes and goals. His 12 goals and 3 assists in 25 matches powered them to an eighth-place league finish. That output also attracted suitors across Europe.</p>



<p>“My confidence level [at Wolfsburg] was very low at some point, and what going out on loan to Charleroi has done for me is unexplainable,” Osimhen told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/46344657" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBC Sport</a> while playing in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/belgian-pro-league-tv-schedule/">Jupiler Pro League</a>. “The football in Belgium has helped, I also have a wonderful group of players around me and the coaching crew have been great with me.”</p>



<p>After making the loan permanent in 2019, Osimhen packed his bags for LOSC Lille in a $24 million move, which was more than three times as profitable as Charleroi’s previous record departure.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Lille is a very good club that has a high quality project and attracts players with great class, even more so than ever before in recent years,” Osimhen said after replacing Rafael Leao from Milan. “I am very happy to be here and to join this great club called Lille. I am still very young, I am learning and I think that this project suits me perfectly to continue to progress.”</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Victor Osimhen - All 31 Goals &amp; Assists 2019/2020" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r_6cRvjWes8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Osimhen made an immediate impact after stepping foot on the Stade Pierre Mauroy. he scored four goals in his first three Ligue 1 matches. Despite the club’s mediocrity on the big stage with five losses in six Champions League games, Osimhen was a breath of fresh air. He ended the season with thirteen goals, fourth in Ligue 1. His performances, like Leao’s in the previous season, earned him a move to the Serie A.</p>



<h5>A Naples-made dream</h5>



<p>After beating Manchester United and Chelsea in the race for Osimhen, Napoli has put Osimhen to great use. Each season, the striker improves. His debut campaign brought a decent return of 10 goals in 2020/21. Then, he put out 13 in 2021/22. This season, he bested those with many games still to play. After 19 games, he has 18 goals and three assists. That is good for over a goal contribution per game in Serie A. He’s been key in his three-year tenure at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. He leads Napoli’s quests to challenge European action with one of Europe’s best front lines.</p>



<p>Despite stars like Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens status on the team, Osimhen was who Napoli went to for goals, and for good reason.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Napoli vs. Ajax: Extended Highlights | UCL Group Stage MD 4 | CBS Sports Golazo" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RH3ROo4sctY?start=825&amp;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>“Osimhen is such a great striker. I am stunned by the potential he has and excited to see what he’ll do in future,” manager <a href="https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/01/osimhens-a-great-striker-says-excited-spalletti/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luciano Spalletti told DAZN</a> after their 5-1 romp over Juventus. “There were these two or three balls down the touchline and he has the pace, the skill, the courage and physicality to deal with those situations. After all, he smashed his face a couple of times because he goes for every ball. He still has remarkable room for improvement.”</p>



<p>His highlights include a Europa League brace against Leicester, a hat-trick in Napoli’s win over Sassuolo and his two goals and assist in the 5-1 win.</p>



<h2>Explaining the dominance of Victor Osimhen</h2>



<p>Osimhen is not a dangerous dribbler like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. He is not an intrusive, space-creating winger like Matteo Politano. </p>



<p>Rather, Osimhen’s chief job is to lurk in the box and look for chances inside the box. It fits; he can score with both feet and his head. He can even be a playmaker inside the box. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Spezia-Napoli 0-3 | Osimhen scores twice in Napoli away win: Goals &amp; Highlights | Serie A 2022/23" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T-nOfe2ohVY?start=112&amp;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Wherever Osimhen has played, he has had good creators behind him, so he does not dribble nor fall deep to get the ball. But, we do know that his ability to make the right pass and create opportunities is there.</p>



<p>His frame is large at 6’1 and 165 pounds. Just visually, he towers over defenders, so it’s only natural Luciano Spalletti uses Osimhen as a traditional No. 9. Osimhen is dynamic, always moving, and although his chief priority is to make line-breaking runs past the last man, he often breaks loose to join wing-oriented attacks or drifts wide to create space.&nbsp;</p>



<p>That movement is why he has 80 total Serie A shots, 32 of which are on target. His current tally puts him on pace for a sensational, and potentially record-breaking, 36 league goals by the end of the campaign. It helps that Osimhen is clinical, athletic, confident, and intelligent with his positioning. That’s a combination that only a few top-tier strikers have.</p>



<p>Osimhen’s profile resembles that of Erling Haaland, Harry Kane or Dusan Vlahovic. All three are both big, burly, cut-throat strikers leading some of Europe’s storied teams. The similarities mean it’s no surprise that teams like United, Liverpool and Chelsea are pursuing the Nigerian attacker. Despite his skill and obvious goal-scoring ability, Osimhen likely won’t leave Napoli for a while. His contract expires in two years, but he is at the crux of something special in southern Italy. </p>



<h5>Osimhen’s future</h5>



<p>It seems like Napoli will run away with the Scudetto. <a href="https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/soccer-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FiveThirtyEight</a> estimates their odds of winning at 97%, by far the best among Europe’s top leagues. Napoli has one of its best chances at winning a continental trophy since Maradona’s time. With an exciting young core to build around, the Naples faithful will enjoy a dominant period already taking place.</p>



<p>As for Osimhen, he feels as elated as the Napoli fans to be a part of such a thriving fanbase. “Not even 100%, 1,001% per cent. I am at one of the biggest clubs in Europe, one of the best leagues in Europe,” <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/sports/football/super-eagles-star-victor-osimhen-speaks-on-his-future-amidst-manchester-united-links/7pyl6sm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">he said</a> to Nigerian outlet OmaSports on whether he wanted to stay or not. “This is the life I want to live.”</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Antonio Balasco</em>&nbsp;</p>


Dominance of Victor Osimhen taking Napoli to new heights

Across Europe's top-five leagues, Victor Osimhen is a major reason for why Napoli is the most in-form team with dominance domestically and continentally. The Nigerian striker, combining seamlessly with Georgian Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, has 18 goals. That is five better than second-place Lautaro Martínez at Inter Milan. More impressive, though, is that Osimhen has done it [&hellip;]

The dominance of Victor Osimhen is profound. He is lighting up Serie A at a blistering pace, and leading Napoli into the Champions League.

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