Victor Osimhen, a Nigerian footballer, has honored George Weah, a former AC Milan player, after breaking his record to become the highest-scoring African player in the history of the Italian Serie A.
Osimhen scored the only goal in Napoli’s 1-0 win over Fiorentina to achieve this feat.
The 24-year-old striker surpassed Samuel Eto’o’s previous record for the most goals scored by an African player in a single Serie A season.
Osimhen expressed his admiration for Weah, whom he considers an African football legend, in a heartfelt post on Twitter.
He hailed Weah’s achievements and expressed his gratitude for the support he has received on his journey.
“While growing up, I have always admired the great achievements of so many African legends, and His Excellency Mr George Weah is one of them—an icon in the world of football and also a leader to his people. Someone who has motivated and inspired millions of young talents alike.
“Yesterday, it was a great honor to break his record as the top-scoring African player in Serie A history—an achievement I will forever cherish. Mr George Weah has set a foundation of excellence for individuals like me to emulate, and his legacy will forever be remembered.
“I celebrate this milestone with everyone who has inspired and supported me on this journey. Thank you for your contributions. God is the greatest,” Victor Osimhen stated.
The aftermath of Napoli’s win has been punctuated by a debate over who between Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the face of their title triumph.
Fans, especially Osimhen’s loyalists from Africa, feel hard done by as Serie A’s account continues to hand the Nigerian striker a peripheral significance despite being the league’s top scorer.
Seemingly not taking a cue from the backlash their post on Saturday received, Ser
Lega Serie A’s Twitter posts
In the first graphic, Diego Maradona was seen placing the new crown of King of Naples on Kvaratskhelia’s head, with fans arguing that Osimhen, and not the Georgian, deserved to be in the picture.
As reported by Sports Brief, Lega Serie A Twitter came under attack over the controversial graphics posted on the account.
The second one was amended to include Osimhen and club captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo as they ascended a flight of stairs. But the bone of contention herein was Kvaratskhelia was once again placed in front of his teammate.
It was a re-enactment of Maradona’s photograph where the Argentine legend was on the same stairs.
There were no other players in Maradona’s photo, which means the account introduced a new set of players to accommodate Osimhen.
ie A followed it up with another a few minutes before Napoli’s clash against Fiorentina.
And just like with the first post, Twitter went wild.
Fans reactions
@Obajemujnr said;
“I don’t know what your plan is, but the leader of “IDAN of Africa,” Victor Osimhen, should always be at the front. If you want to put him at the back in pictures, then make sure he plays your defence next season.”
@Mc_Phils tweeted:
“Trying to put Victor Osimhen in the picture so we don’t talk”
@comeback_snarky said:
“Why is Osimhen still not in the front?”
@valam0ghurliss was of a different opinion;
“Kvara is undoubtedly the main treasure ofNapoli and he is portrayed everywhere for a reason. It’s his 1st season and he could successfully contribute to the team. He was a piece of the puzzle that this team needed. With a huge respect to Osimhen and his brilliant moments.”
The other time Osimhen was snubbed
Osimhen is so far on 23 goals and four assists, while Kvaratskhelia has chipped in with 12 goals and 10 assists. The post by the Serie A account has brought about fears that Osimhen might get snubbed in the Most Valuable Player of the season.
But for Osimhen, as Sports Brief reported, getting snubbed after a prolific scoring season, sadly, won’t be something new.
Nigerians dethroned Napoli, the league winners, by challenging the Serie A league’s administrators on Twitter. Napoli had been chosen as the best player.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia received a crown placed on his head by Argentine legend and Napoli legend Diego Maradona, indicating that he was the club’s greatest player this season, according to a picture uploaded by Serie A.
In less than an hour following the posting, Nigerians started tweeting an altered version of the picture showing Maradona crowning Osimhen.
Victor Osimhen, a Nigerian international who has been considered the finest player on the Naples team all season, formed a solid relationship with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the club’s No. 77.
Osimhen has 27 goals with 4 assists so far whiles Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has 14 goals with 14 assists.
Osimhen has been one of the most influential players for the new Scudetto winners, as he was seen celebrating with his colleagues on the pitch and in the dressing room after the game.
If not Racism, Victor Osimhen should wear the crown. Retweet if you agree???? https://t.co/XImpK4RY3c pic.twitter.com/WtISjbu3O7
— French ???????? (@Mc_Phils) May 6, 2023
You couldn’t make this up. Except, of course, it is Italy. No matter what Osimhen did, you always knew he probably needed to score a 100 goals before he’s given his due. https://t.co/J9N5g0ulJW
Gary Al-Smith (@garyalsmith) May 6, 2023
VICTOR OSIMHEN THE ONLY NEW KING OF NAPOLI ???? PIC.TWITTER.COM/B42MTOIYJQ— STEADY BOY ???? (@STEADYDEY) MAY 6, 2023
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and his colleagues have been urged by De Laurentiis, the president of the recently crowned Italian champions Napoli, to ensure that their Serie A title success is replicated next season.
Since Thursday night, when Napoli’s 1-1 draw at Udinese handed them the Serie A title courtesy to Osimhen scoring their goal, there has been a great deal of celebration in Naples.
Even though Napoli still has five games left in the season, the draw ended their 33-year wait for the Scudetto.
According to the report on Complete Sports, De Laurentiis explained that he is happy with the success recorded by his players as he urged them to continue making the club and fans proud.
Statement made by De Laurentiis
“You always told me, we want to win. And we won! We all won together. And on Sunday against Fiorentina, everyone is here for the big party. Thank you to everyone.
“Today is the crowning of an expectation that lasted 33 years. When I arrived, I said it will take 10 years to get into Europe – we maintained that early. I said another 10 years to win the Scudetto, and we did that again a couple of years in advance.”
Osimhen breaks Serie A record
Earlier, Sports Brief had reported howVictor Osimhen helped Napoli to become Serie A champions for the first time in 33 years, through his equalising goal against Udinese in the second half.
The Nigerian powered home a shot through the crowd after a scramble from a corner kick, to help Napoli hold on and seal the Italian league title away from home in Udine.
Neapolitans put everything in place for a party at home last Sunday against Salernitana, but the team fell short of victory despite Inter Milan beating Lazio 3-1.
Napoli are now 16 points clear of second-placed Lazio with a maximum of 15 points left to fight for, meaning they cannot be matched or overtaken mathematically.
Following Napoli’s announcement that they would be the Italian Serie A winners for the 2022–2023 season, football star Diego Maradona ought to be jumping for delight in his afterlife.
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen answered in the second half with a bullet shot from inside the box to assist the Partenopei earn a draw and win the championship.
At Udinese, a draw was needed, but after the home team seized the lead in the 13th minute, it appeared that the celebration would have to wait another day.
The first two championships for Napoli, the last of which was in 1990, were won by Maradona. Before he tragically killed unexpectedly at age 60 on November 25, 2020, according to ESPN, he never saw the team lift another.
Maradona’s tribute to Napoli players
When Maradona passed on in 2020, his children announced his social media accounts would keep running to preserve his memory.
Two of his biggest dreams after his retirement never happened again in his lifetime – to see Argentina win theWorld Cup and see Napoli win the Scudetto; both have happened in the last six months.
According to Football Italia, the Instagram account of the late legend sent a tribute to Napoli players – a picture of Maradona and the last names of the squad, including head coach Luciano Spalletti was accompanied by a caption.
“A new date to remember, a new joy for the city, for the people, for history. Thank you to all of you guys! FORZA NAPOLI.” the caption on Instagram reads.
Juventus’ salty congratulations to Napoli
Sports Brief reported that Juventus sent salty congratulations to Napoli after their status as Italian champions were confirmed with the draw against Udinese last night.
The 36-times Italian champions remind the Neapolitans of their dominance and the times they received compliments before applauding their rivals’ success, a detail deemed unnecessary.
Napoli’s Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, who has attracted the interest of several top European football clubs including Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Manchester United, may not be easily poached, as Napoli’s president Aurelio De Laurentiis is known for his tough negotiation skills.
Osimhen’s impressive performance, including scoring 22 goals in the Italian Serie A and 27 in all competitions, has confirmed Napoli’s position as champions for the 2022/23 season and earned him a place among African legends such as Samuel Eto’o and George Weah.
De Laurentiis’s recent comments have dealt a blow to the interested clubs, indicating that he will not easily let go of the talented striker.
“I will not sell Victor Osimhen this summer — no way,” he told Cinque Minuti after the match against Udinese.
The striker also spoke on his future after their status as champions was confirmed on Thursday and was only interested in partying for now.
”Future? Now I want to enjoy this historic moment. This is not the time to think about my future,” he told Sky Italia.
Multiple reports in theEnglish and Italian media suggest De Laurentiis will only listen to an offer in the region of €150m for the forward despite claiming he would not sell and is only trying to instigate a battle that will drive the price up.
Osimhen breaks Eto’o record
Victor Osimhen’s goal that delivered the league title to Napoli was also a record-matching and record-breaking goal for the Nigerian striker.
Osimhen broke Eto’o Serie A record for most goals by an African in a single season, as reported by Sports Brief. He also matched George Weah’s record of most goals by an African in Italy.
With five games left this season, he could cement his status as the best African to play in the Italian top-flight division.
Napoli has secured the Serie A title after claiming a point at Udinese on the evening of May 5th and as a result of their impressive campaign, many of their top stars including Osimhen are sure to attract interest this summer.
The Partenopei have been in exceptional form this season and are poised to lift their first Scudetto in 33 years, having opened up a commanding lead at the top of the table.
As they look to build on their success, it is likely that several players will attract attention from other clubs.
Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen will be one of Europe’s hottest properties this summer after scoring a sensational 26 goals in 33 appearances this campaign.
The Nigerian striker has been linked with the likes of Manchester United and Chelseaas well as Real Madridand Bayern Munich but Napoli’s hefty price tag may prove a potential stumbling block.
Those clubs could be reluctant to meet his reported £100million valuation but with few enjoying better goalscoring seasons than the 24-year-old, it may be money well spent.
Osimhen started playing football at a young age, and by the age of 18, he had made his professional debut for the Nigerian team, Ultimate Strikers Academy.
Osimhen’s big break came when he signed for Wolfsburg in the German Bundesliga in 2017. However, he struggled to make an impact at the club and was loaned out to Charleroi in the Belgian First Division A, where he enjoyed a successful spell, scoring 20 goals in 36 appearances.
In July 2020, Osimhen joined Napoli for a reported fee of €50 million, becoming the club’s most expensive signing ever. Despite a slow start to his Napoli career due to injury and Covid-19 complications, he has gradually established himself as a key player for the club, scoring 10 goals in 24 appearances in his debut season.
Osimhen’s style of play is characterized by his pace, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has been in sensational form this season
Another attacking star who will not be short of suitors is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with Manchester City and Liverpool among a long list of interested parties.
The Georgian winger — nicknamed Kvaradona by the Napoli faithful — has been a revelation since arriving in Naples last summer from his homeland.
A price tag upwards of £100m is now being talked about for the pacy, skilful and clinical forward after 14 goals and 14 assists across 37 Serie A and Champions League appearances.
Minjae Kim
Minjae Kim has marshalled things expertly at the back and a switch to Liverpool, City or Utd could now be in the offing.
Napoli have conceded a league-low 22 goals this campaign and having started 31 of their 32 games, much of that has been down to their South Korean defender.
Kim, 26, signed a new contract with Luciano Spalletti’s men last summer but Premier League clubs are unlikely to be put off by a potentially substantial fee.
Alex Meret
Alex Meret has been linked with a move to Tottenham
Alex Meret has been named as a potential solution to Tottenham’s issues between the sticks.
Spurs are on the hunt for a successor to veteran captain Hugo Lloris and Italian stopper Meret has emerged as a prime target alongside the likes of Jordan Pickford and David Raya.
The 26-year-old has 19 clean sheets in all competitions this term but whether he wants to give up Champions League football to make the switch to North London remains to be seen.
Alex Meret is an Italian professional football player who currently plays as a goalkeeper forNapoli in Serie A and the Italy national team.
He was born on March 22, 1997, in Udine, Italy, and started his youth career at Udinese before moving to Parma.
He joined Napoli in 2018 and has since made over 50 appearances for the club, helping them win the Coppa Italia in the 2019-20 season. He has also represented Italy at various youth levels and made his senior debut in 2019.
Next Giacomo Raspadori’s 93rd-minute volley that handed Napoli a 1-0 victory in Turin on Sunday, Napoli might be able to clinch the title as early as the next weekend.
With seven games remaining and a 17-point lead over Lazio in second place, the Partenopei, who haven’t won the championship since Diego Maradona’s time, will undoubtedly soon be celebrating.
Spalletti said Napoli would have to “wait to uncork the bottles”, but he only half-heartedly talked down their title celebrations having had his own long wait to this point. The coach is yet to win a league title in his home country.
“I haven’t travelled in the window seat,” he told DAZN. “I’ve always hitch-hiked. The fact that I am in a position to win this Scudetto repays all the sacrifices I’ve made.
For those who always believed. For those who stopped believing.
“Sometimes I was made fun of because of my boots [on the touchline], but I suffered to have those. I remember well when I couldn’t buy them. Since I suffered a few times before, this year I put them on.
“I took a more difficult road than others who start from different levels, and it’s probably right for them, too, because in their careers as players they gained such esteem as to start from a higher level.”
While Raspadori has not quite had the same difficult path as Spalletti, his first season in Naples has also not been straightforward, limited to only nine Serie A starts due to injury.
Sunday’s goal was his second of the season, but it was a big one.
“I am happy because they have shown me that they love me, as they do every day,” the forward said.
“There is never a moment to stand still, it was a difficult moment and I worked to get out of it together with the coaching staff. Now, I’m happy for the goal.”
Didier Drogba, a Chelsea stalwart, has advised Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen not to joinParis Saint-Germain this summer, saying the French club is not a place for him to continue playing football.
Given his outstanding performances for Napoli, where he currently leads the goalscoring table, Osimhen has so far this season captivated the hearts of many football fans in Nigeria and Italy.
This has made the former Lille strongman become a target for many clubs most especially him being linked with a move to the Premier League with clubs like Chelsea, Man United and Arsenal said to be interested.
Osimhen on the other hand has not really made his final decision about where to play his game next season as he is currently focusing on helping Napoli win the title.
And to make things sweet, Napoli are in good position to win the league title and Osimhen could also be the first Nigerian to take home the Golden Boot award in the Serie A.
Drogba’s advise to Osimhen
According to the report on Naija Footballer, Drogba who was one of the finest African strikers to have played in the Premier League made it clear that Osimhen should not move to France.
Berbatov wants Osimhen at Man United
It had reported how ahead of the forthcoming summer transfer window, former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov disclosed that he wants to see Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils are also eyeing the Spurs forward Harry Kane, but Berbatov believes that the England striker is already of age.
United are desperate to sign a proven striker and are already making moves to land Kane before the start of the coming season.
The 29-year-old has already notched in over 200 Premier League goals, including 23 this season, but he is yet to win any major trophy in his career.
In the forthcoming transfer window, Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly ready to make a €150 million offer for star Napoli attacker Victor Osimhen.
The 24-year-old Osimhen is now in his third season with Napoli after moving there in a club-record €70 million deal from Lille, and this time around he has had one of the best goal-scoring campaigns in Europe.
The Nigerian international has been unstoppable with 21 goals in 24 Serie A appearances and five goals in six Champions League matches.
Now, the world’s best clubs have taken notice.
While there is also said to be strong interest in Osimhen coming from the deep pockets of Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain are trying to wrap things up early with a serious bid.
Football Insider is reporting the French giants are ready to meet Napoli’s enormous €150m asking price, with the hope they can blow Chelsea out of the water as they consider a £100m (€112m) bid of their own.
Osimhen’s contract ties him to the club for two more seasons after this one, but with his value at an all-time high,and with Napoli being able to offer the chance at league titles and deep Champions League runs, the Serie A leaders can demand a substantial windfall.
ROUND-UP
– According to GiveMeSport, Manchester United view Valencia’s 22-year-old goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili – who is priced around £45m (€50m) – as a potential long-term replacement for David de Gea.
– United are also showing interest in 19-year-old Benfica centre-back Antonio Silva, although they face competition from Paris Saint-Germain, Napoli, Real Madrid, Juventus and Liverpool, per Ekrem Konur.
– Football Insider is reporting Liverpool and Tottenham are the two teams 23-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt centre-back Evan Ndicka will choose between when his contract expires in a few months.
– According to the Daily Mail, 31-year-old Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino will join Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of the season.
Director of Napoli Cristiano Giuntoli has come forth and stated categorically that the team has no remorse over missing on Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite holding a sizable lead at the top of Serie A, Gli Azzurri have struggled to score in recent games.
In the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal against AC Milan on April 19, they faced their Italian rivals in an effort to overcome a 1-0 deficit.
AC Milan started with the same squad that beat Napoli 4-0 in a comprehensive performance earlier this month, while Napoli boss, Luciano Spaletti was forced to make several changes in the absence of Kim Min-jae and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa – both through suspension – and Giovanni Simeone, who is still recovering from injury.
With Nigerian superstar, Victor Osimhen back in action from injury, it came as a slight boost for Napoli but they fell short in the second leg and could only manage a 1-1 draw.
‘We never thought of CR7’
Prior to the Champions League second leg, Giuntoli was asked about rumours Napoli wanted to sign Ronaldo over the summer, something he strongly denied.
“In all honesty, we never even thought about it. We had some financial parameters we needed to stick to and thought we could surprise people more with a group of lads who were eager to prove themselves,” he said, per FootballItalia.
However, there has been a general feeling that Al-Nassr has fallen off since the Portugal star’s arrival, with the club in danger of missing out on the league title despite being in pole position before Ronaldo had signed on.
Cristiano taunted with Messi chants
It was earlier reported on how Ronaldo was taunted with Messi chants by Al-Hilal fans on Tuesday, in a frustrating night for the veteran.
The Portuguese phenom’s side was dealt a crushing blow thanks to a brace from Nigerian striker, Idion Ighalo at the King Fahd International Stadium.
The result left Al-Nassr three points behind Saudi Pro League leaders, Al-Ittihad, who have a game in hand and look set to claim this season’s crown.
After Napoli’s Champions League elimination by AC Milan on Tuesday, Luciano Spalletti lamented their inexperience and physical difficulties.
The quarterfinal second leg ended in a 1-1 stalemate in Naples, but Milan advanced 2-1 on the basis of a 1-0 victory in the first leg last week. Victor Osimhen’s late goal offset Olivier Giroud’s early goal.
While quickly giving credit to a resolute Milan, Spalletti suggested that Napoli’s lack of experience and fitness issues after Osimhen missed the first leg due to injury were difficulties.
The Napoli coach told Mediaset: “We congratulate Milan for this qualification, that must be done because they have played two games managing to capitalise to the maximum [on their opportunities].
“This is a sign of a mature team, of players who know how to choose the moments: when to step on the accelerator and when you have to defend yourself with all the team.
“But I also want to congratulate my players. We played a Champions League campaign of the highest level and we played a good match tonight as well.
“We paid for a little inexperience in reading the moments of the match.
“We played with different players with a little tiredness,starting with Osimhen who had not played for twenty days.”
👏 You never lose when you do us proud. Thanks for your efforts, boys!
Napoli have failed to progress from four of their five Champions League knockout rounds, with their only success coming in the round-of-16 tie this season against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Spalletti’s side are also without a win in their last three games in all competitions (D2 L1), having gone winless in just three of their 16 previous games (W13 D1 L2).
A Scudetto will still likely follow with Napoli leading at the Serie A summit by 14 points, yet Spalletti acknowledged his side have slipped away after getting too comfortable following a March 19 victory at Torino.
He added: “We weren’t good enough inside the penalty area to score, as they did the only time they came in.
“We were in good condition, both mentally and physically [in the first half], then after the break we found players not in condition and forcing our press a few times.
“The league win against Torino made us believe that the championship was a formality. During these two games, we did everything totally differently.”
After seeingFrank Anguissa dismissed in the first leg, in which Ismael Bennacer’s strike proved the difference in a 1-0 win for Milan, Spalletti was left frustrated with referee Istvan Kovacs.
Spalletti once again voiced his displeasure with the officiating, suggesting Szymon Marciniak should have awarded a first-half penalty for Rafael Leao’s sliding tackle on Hirving Lozano.
“Tonight there’s a clear penalty on Lozano in the 37th minute, very clearly, his ankle just twists,” he continued.
“You can see it very well in the replays. You risk twisting his ankle. It’s a penalty you can’t miss.”
The striker was not present for his team’s quarterfinal first-leg defeat on Wednesday, as the Partenopei lost 1-0 at San Siro thanks to a first-half goal from Ismael Bennacer.
With 21 goals this season, Osimhen is the Serie A scoring leader and has played a key role in the club’s commanding lead in the Scudetto battle.
But having sat out this week’s game with a groin injury, Spalletti has given assurances he will feature for their home tie next week against the Rossoneri.
“Victor Osimhen will 100 per cent be available for the return leg at [Stadio Diego Armando] Maradona on Tuesday,” he said. “He will be there.”
Spalletti will also have to rethink his plans in light of Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s dismissal, with the midfielder sent off after a second yellow card for pushing Theo Hernandez.
The Cameroon international will be suspended, as will defender Kim Min-jae following a late booking, but the coach has the belief his side will adapt to their loss.
“Any absence is damaging at this stage of the season, but we also have players who can fill in, which is why we are where we are,” he added to Sky Sport Italia.
“We trust the squad. We are sad not to have Anguissa, as it feels unjust not to have him, but there’s nothing we can do. I don’t comment on the referee, that is not my role.”
Napoli will return to Serie A action this weekend against Verona before they face Milan. The Partenopei are already enjoying their deepest run in Europe’s premier competition.
The first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal between the current Italian champions and the league’s current leaders took place at San Siro, and the home team emerged victorious.
Near the end of the first half, Ismael Bennacer gave the home team the lead, and they kept it going going into the second leg at the Stadium Diego Armando Maradona the following week.
Napoli started Eljif Elmas in place of injured star striker Victor Osimhen, but head coach Luciano Spalletti assured fans the Nigerian would be available next week, as reported by Soccernet.
Leao smashes the corner flag
Last season’s Serie A MVP has had an on-and-off season this year and has gone most of this year
Victor Osimhen has finally said that his goal in playing professional football is to be named the African Footballer of the Year in light of his great accomplishments this season.
Osimhen is most likely to wind up with the greatest goal total in the Italian Serie A this season given the way things are going, making him the first Nigerian to do so.
This season, the Super Eagles’ strongman at Napoli has been generating news for the right reasons and has been linked to a move to the Premier League.
Clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea have been identified as the three EPL sides who have signified interest to have the Nigerian striker.
According to the latest report on Complete Sports, Osimhen is looking to dethrone Sadio Mane who is the current holder of the prestigious African award.
Osimhen’s statement about landing award
“I am not going to lie. It would be my dream to be African Footballer of the Year. I was at the ceremony in 2015, when Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang won the award. As an African you dream of this prize and maybe I can win.”
The last Nigerian player who won the African Footballer of the year award was Kanu Nwankwo in 1999.
Bayern Munich want Osimhen
Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Bayern Munich joined the race to sign Nigerian striker,Victor Osimhen and are said to be willing to pay Napoli the €100 million asking fee.
This latest piece of transfer news means the Bavarians could hijack the signature of the Super Eagles striker from the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Since the departure of Robert Lewandowski to Barcelona, Bayern have been struggling in front of goals and are yet to find a good replacement for the veteran striker.
As both managers gear up for critical matches in the Champions League quarterfinals,Pep Guardiola and Luciano Spalletti have ramped up their verbal spat.
Guardiola initially complimented Napoli quietly for the enormous achievements they have made this season, but now the two teams are constantly exchanging punches.
The Partenopei are close to winning their first Scudetto in more than 30 years, as the Manchester City manager earlier complimented.
What Spalletti said about Guardiola
However, as Sports Brief reported, Spalletti slammed Guardiola for his remarks by claiming that it is often a tactic of the Spanish boss to rattle other teams.
When asked if he was proud of the comments made by the Manchester City coach, the Florence-born manager retorted:
“No, I’m not proud. It doesn’t make me proud. It’s a game to put pressure on the rest. We all know it already,” he said, as quoted by Marca. “How are you going to put a team that invested 9 million euros ahead of a team that spent 900 million?
It’s a little game to say we’ll put you there and then you’re sure to fall.”
Guardiola’s response to Spalletti
Speaking ahead of his side’s UCL game against Bayern Munich, Guardiola declined to talk about Napoli, claiming Spalletti was being sensitive.
“I don’t want to talk about Napoli because the manager will be grumpy with me,” he quipped, as quoted by Football Italia.
Guardiola and Spalletii can only face off in the finals. Napoli play AC Milan, looking to offer an instant response after the stinging 4-0 loss after the international break.
Friday’s all-Italian Champions League quarterfinal betweenNapoli and Lecce is approaching, and Napoli will be looking to quickly recover from their shattering home loss to AC Milan.
After a Good Friday vacation to the Adriatic coast, coach Luciano Spalletti claimed he would know whether his team’s four-goal thrashing on Sunday was “a crack or a crater.”
Spalletti and a strangely divided fan base will want to rapidly plug the hole Milan punched through because Napoli will be flying up to the San Siro on Wednesday for the opening leg of an exciting European match.
A 16-point advantage over second-placed Lazio with 10 games to go, means Napoli are still all-but guaranteed their first Scudetto since 1990 but a strong display is needed after Milan made them look ordinary in the first of a trio of clashes.
Star striker Victor Osimhen will again be out of action with a thigh injury after also missing the Milan defeat, but the Nigerian and Napoli are both cautiously optimistic he could return midweek.
He will also have a new face mask to wear on the pitch after losing the now iconic headgear while on international duty with his country, with whom he picked up his knock.
In his place will be eitherGiovanni Simeone or Giacomo Raspadori, the former more likely to start by virtue of his performance when Osimhen was last injured in the autumn.
For Milan, who take to the field at the San Siro in the third game on Friday, mid-table Empoli are the perfect opposition to test whether last weekend was a freak result or a blazing return to the form which won them the league last season.
Stefano Pioli has finally returned to a back four, the formation which served him so well in his team’s thrilling run to the title.
Brahim Diaz, who starred in Naples alongside side two-goal Rafale Leao, is set to be rested ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash.
In Serie A, Milan are trying to cut a four-point gap between them and second-placed Lazio.
Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio host Juventus on Sunday night with both teams involved in racism controversies, the capital club for anti-Semitic chanting during last month’s Rome derby and Juve for monkey chants aimed at Romelu Lukaku on Tuesday night.
Juve are only six points off the Champions League places despite being deducted 15 points for transfer offences similar to the ones for which Lazio and their local rivals Roma are being investigated by criminal prosecutors.
Juve have won seven of their last eight and are closing in on a top-four battle which looked impossible when they were sanctioned by the Italian Football Federation in January.
The Argentine has performed admirably as a deputy to Osimhen on the rare occasionsthat Serie A’s top scorer has been out injured this season, but was practically invisible last weekend.
Restricted to just four starts in all competitions this season but the scorer of some important goals he will be key to Napoli trying to bounce back from that heavy defeat ahead of the Champions League double header.
This summer’s bidding war forNapoli defender Minjae Kim will include Manchester United, Tottenham, and Liverpool.
The 26-year-old international from South Korea, Kim, has been a revelation for Luciano Spalletti’s dominant Serie A team this season, appearing in 36 of their 37 games in all competitions.
Kim’s current contract apparently features a £39 million release clause, despite only being signed from Turkish team Fenerbahce last summer.
According to The Mail, that has caught the interest of United, Spurs and the Reds, as well as German giants Bayern Munich and French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Napoli intend to offer their No3 fresh terms in the coming weeks to try and avoid losing him for a relatively modest fee.
Those efforts may prove in vain however, with the report suggesting Kim is keen to test himself in the Premier League.
Spurs will hope they hold an edge over their rivals due to the presence of Kim’s international captain Heung-Min Son in their ranks.
But Napoli, who have a commanding 16-point lead in the league and are among the favourites for Champions League glory, will not give up their star defender without a fight.
Describing Kim earlier this season, Spalletti said: “For me, he truly is the best centre-back in the world.
“When he starts the run with the ball at his feet, he can get it into the opposition penalty area in five seconds flat.”
The Serie A league leaders in Italy received a harsh reality check yesterday when AC Milan, the defending champions, defeated them in a 4-0 game at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona.
High-flying Napoli, who were without their star striker Victor Osimhen, were defeated by two goals from last season’s MVP Rafael Leao and one each from Brahim Diaz and Alexis Saelemaekers.
With the defeat, Luciano Spaletti’s team’s lead over Lazio in second place was cut to 16 points.
At the same time, it moved Milan up to third place, one point ahead of Inter Milan, which suffered a defeat to Fiorentina on Saturday.
According to Italy 24, Napoli ultras protested ahead of the game. Those inside the stadium were ordered to stay silent in protest against club president Aurelio de Laurentiis for rising ticket prices and increased security measures.
Napoli fans brawl inside stadium The fans stuck to their agreement in the earlier stages of the game, but they proved they didn’t deserve one of their demands after a brawl broke out in Curva B during the first half, as reported by Football Italia.
They further pushed against their demands when another fight broke out at half-time. The fans turned their backs and only made insulting chants towards De Laurentiis, but got triggered when some cheered the team.
Their demands were not helped when the situation got worse in the closing stages of the game, with fireworks lighting inside the stadium causing pandemonium and fans running for safety.
It was not the first time Neapolitans caused violence this season. They were barred from attending the away game to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League after causing disruption in the first leg of the encounter.
Spalletti started young striker Giovanni Simeone, the son of Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone, in place of Osimhen but the Nigerian striker’s impact could not be matched.
The former Lille striker is expected to miss the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie against Milan.
Stefano Pioli insisted “nobody is perfect or unbeatable” as AC Milan prepare to overthrow Napoli in the all-Italian Champions League quarter-final clash.
Milan and Napoli will meet for the first time in European competition on April 12 in the first leg at San Siro, with Luciano Spalletti’s side flying high in Serie A and UEFA’s top club competition.
The Partenopei are 19 points clear at the Italian top-flight summit and suggested by many as a potential challenger for the European crown.
But Milan have only lost one of their nine all-Italian showdowns in Europe (W4 D4) and Pioli sees no reason why the Rossoneri cannot dream of progressing past Spalletti’s in-form side.
The Milan coach said: “Honestly, I’d rather not meet an Italian side. In the Champions League it’s better to face a foreign club. Napoli are very strong but we want to play for it.
“They have shown great consistency, strength and quality, they have all the characteristics of a great team, but nobody is perfect or unbeatable.”
Pioli’s side have not reached the last eight in the Champions League since the 2011-12 term when they were eliminated by Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.
Milan last went beyond that stage in the 2006-07 season en route to lifting the trophy but overcoming Napoli will prove an incredibly difficult challenge.
Napoli have won each of their past three away matches against the Rossoneri, their best such run against them, although they have not triumphed in any of their past five trips to Milan in cup competitions.
🇪🇸 Real Madrid vs Chelsea 🏴 🇵🇹 Benfica vs Inter 🇮🇹 🏴 Man City vs Bayern 🇩🇪 🇮🇹 Milan vs Napoli 🇮🇹
*FC Internazionale Milano's match has been reversed in accordance with the principles set by the Club Competitions Committee. #UCLdrawpic.twitter.com/m1gMqFs1fV
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 17, 2023
Pioli wants to build on Milan’s Champions League history but says the Rossoneri cannot take their eyes off the Serie A top-four battle, leading fifth-placed Roma by just a point.
“It’s part of the history of this club and the path it has always followed,” he added. “We are beginning to write our history, that of Milan in the Champions League is a different path from ours.
“When you go to San Siro to play the Champions League it is something exciting and spectacular that involves everyone.
“We are very busy but we are also focusing on the league. To make this season a positive one, we have to play in the Champions League next year. We have to be careful.”
Before the mouthwatering European meeting, Milan visit Napoli in Serie A on Sunday with the Rossoneri’s Scudetto soon seemingly heading for Naples.
Pioli’s side have been unable to replicate their exploits from last season’s title-winning campaign, though the Italian suggested Milan’s young side would always struggle to defend their title.
“I don’t think there are many teams in Europe that immediately win the second league,” he continued. “We won with a very young team, thanks to a project and a club path we are proud of.
“We are one of the few clubs with a sustainable project; only a few teams manage to win and be competitive in Europe.
“That is a leap that we have not yet been able to make but this year too gives us the opportunity to understand great things, to improve and be the strongest club.”
While praisingNapoli and “great coach” Luciano Spalletti, Francesco Totti asserts that the romping Serie A leaders have “been lucky” this year.
Since Diego Maradona was still a member of the team in 1990, Napoli has not won the Scudetto.
With only 11 games left, the Partenopei are massively ahead by 19 points, making a championship victory all but certain.
While praising Roma’s efforts under former Giallorossi manager Spalletti, Totti maintains that they have benefited from the lack of a true rival.
Legend Totti won only one title with Roma, although they finished as runners-up on a further nine occasions across his remarkable career, missing out to Juventus, Milan and Inter.
“I honestly didn’t expect it like this,” Totti told Sky Sport of Napoli. “I knew it was a good team with a great coach – it was a well-made combination.
👨🍳 𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐇𝐈𝐌 𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐊
👉 The @SerieA_EN Goal of the Month for March was dispatched in style by our very own Kvara!
“They expressed themselves to the fullest in everything and were also lucky because they didn’t have an opponent behind them who can keep up with their pace.
“When we were there, there was always Juve, Inter, Milan who always clung there.
“If you won 20 games, they won 19. Napoli doesn’t have a second team like that.”
Lazio are Napoli’s nearest rivals, but Juve would be second if not for a 15-point deduction. Even then, the Bianconeri would be 15 points off the pace.
Victor Osimhen Napolian striker, was spotted displaying his moves inside the Super Eagles’ training facility as three new players were introduced ahead of the match against Guinea Bissau.
The MKO Abiola stadium, where the first leg of the AFCON qualifiers will be played, has already welcomed more than 20 players, who have begun training there.
Osimhen arrived on Tuesday night shortly after signing an endorsement agreement in Lagos, where he is now a Dettol soap ambassador.
Osimhen was seen dancing to worship songs with his teammates in the video that was posted on Twitter, while Iheanacho was playing the drum.
The new players who have been initiated into the Super Eagles are Sochima, Bameyi & Aniagboso and they have also introduced themselves to other teammates.
Chijioke Kingsley Aniagboso is a goalie and was with the Under-20 team at the recently concluded AFCON in Egypt.
Super Eagles have won their first two games in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers and Peseiro and his wards will want to continue with their impressive performances.
Osimhen started as a goalie
Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Osimhen has been doing excellently well this season for Napoli in the Serie A getting them goals.
However, not many knew that the 24-year-old started his career as a goalkeeper.
The Nigerian striker made this revelation while answering questions in a video interview where he made it clear that he was a goalie when he was young.
Osimhen also revealed that there was even a tournament where he saved two penalties for his youth team in the semi-final of a tournament.
The Nigerian explained that he later stopped keeping and then became a defender before he became a striker.
Victor Osimhen, a striker from Nigeria, has downplayed reports linking him to Premier League clubs, saying it would be disrespectful to Napoli for him to discuss transfers.
When asked to choose between Manchester United and Manchester City by a fan during a Q&A session in Lagos, the Super Eagles player revealed this.
Osimhen has been associated with Manchester United for a while, and many fans have been calling for him to move to Old Trafford.
This is a result of his incredible efforts this season for Napoli, where he has scored 21 goals and is leading the Serie A standings.
According to the video spotted on Twitter, Osimhen explained that he won’t be able to talk again on transfer because he has to respect Napoli. Statement made by Osimhen ”I want to appreciate the person who asked the question, but I don’t want to talk about transfers because it will be so disrespectful to my current club.”
Meanwhile, Osimhen is expected to lead the attack for the Super Eagles in their coming double header against Guinea Bissau.
Okocha wants Osimhen in EPL Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Super Eagles legend, Jay-Jay Okocha showered encomiums on Victor Osimhen, saying he has been impressed with the Nigerian striker’s performances this season. Osimhen is already set to etch his name into the football history books, judging by his brilliant form for Napoli, where he is currently topping the Serie A scoring table with 21 goals this term.
His brilliance in front of the goal has made him a target of many clubs in Europe, who are reportedly preparing to table offers to the Italian club in the summer.
Thanks in part to their lethal striker, Napoli have established a 19-point lead on the Serie A table and are in good position to life the title.
Okocha stated emphatically that Osimhen has shown he has the qualities to excel in the Premier League.
The former Bolton Wanderers midfielder added he would love to see his compatriot feature in the English league for Manchester United or even Manchester City.
On Wednesday night, Real Madridand Napoli easily advanced to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League, completing the field of eight teams.
Real defeated Liverpool 1-0 on the night to finish with a 6-3 overall triumph over the Reds, while Napoli defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0 to win with a 5-0 overall victory.
Real Madrid and Napoli join Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, AC Milan, Manchester City and Benfica for Friday’s draw.
The Reds, who lost the first leg 5-2, lined up with four forwards at the Bernabeu as they looked to add another famous comeback to their fabled European history.
But that rarely looked on the cards and legendary Real striker Karim Benzemaput the tie beyond doubt when he tucked in from Vinicius Jr’s cutback late on.
In Naples, Victor Osimhen scored twice as Napoli cruised into the last 8 for the first time with a comfortable win over Eintracht Frankfurt.
With Luciano Spalletti’s side two goals up from the first leg, the Nigeria striker’s thumping header in first-half stoppage time dispelled any lingering nerves at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Osimhen doubled the Italians’ lead on the night with a close-range finish from Giovanni di Lorenzo’s cross eight minutes after the break and, having been brought down in the box, Piotr Zielinski converted the penalty himself to make it 3-0.
The draw for the quarter finals and semi finals of the Champions League will be held at UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon.
Victor Osimhen of Nigeria and his teammates have been cautioned byNapoli coach Luciano Spalletti ahead of their Champions League matchup against Eintracht Frankfurt.
After defeating Germany 2-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal match, Napoli will play for pride in front of their home crowd.
Osimhen scored a goal for Napoli in the first match, and on March 15 at 8 p.m. local time, the Nigerian is expected to shine once more in Naples.
Spalletti reportedly said that his team should wait to celebrate until the second match, per the Complete Sports report.
Statement made by Spalletti “Seeing as it is practically a final, I want to see the attitude of a team that is starved and wants a result. I’ve seen them in training all term and they never let their heads drop. “Now the test is to forget what has happened in the past and focus on getting the job done now.
Don’t forget Eintracht got through a group that had Tottenham, Marseille and Sporting.
”Last year they won away to a Barcelona side that eliminated us, so we have total respect for the work Oliver Glasner is doing, we know it will be tough.”
Napoli's Victor Osimhen is recognized for being the best foreign athlete in Italy in 2022 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/dseJi67jZx
Osimhen flaunts diamond necklace Earlier, had reported how Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen flaunted a multimillion Naira diamond necklace as he stepped out in style amid links with Premier League clubs this summer.
The Super Eagles star is currently the man of the moment in the Italian Serie A, where he is leading the scoring chart with 19 goals.
Osimhen has won the hearts of many Napoli fans through his performances and they are hoping the Nigerian will remain in Naples after the current season ends.
The Nigerian was seen in joyous mood while showing off his expensive piece of jewellery.
The Super Eagles striker deservedly received the honour following a stellar campaign in which he helped Napoli to the top of the standings with 19 goals.
The Naples club has relied heavily on Osimhen as they comfortably sit atop the table with a 15-point lead.
Thanks to the Nigerian forward, De Laurentiis’ dream of leading Napoli to Serie A victory appears to be coming true.
De Laurentiis celebrated Osimhen on social media after he won the Stampa Estera award.
“Thanks to the Foreign Press. A beautiful award ceremony for Victor and high-level exchange of views,” he wrote on Twitter.
A proud De Laurentiis had earlier posted a photo of himself and the player with the inscription, Victor. Osimhen’s time in Naples could end prematurely in the summer transfer window, with several clubs including Manchester United interested in his services.
The lanky forward has not hidden his desire of playing in the English Premier League.
The Super Eagles strongman has been in superb form this term at Napoli scoring goals and has been linked with a summer move to the Premier League. Clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United are reported as the two sides who are seriously looking for the signature of Osimhen and they will go into bid battle at the end of the season.
Osimhen pays tribute to Maradona Victor Osimhen has paid a touching tribute to late football icon Diego Maradona hailing the Argentine for his incredible contributions to the success of Napoli years back.
The Nigerian international claimed that what Maradona did for Napoli during his active playing days can never be overemphasized stressing that the Argentine did it alone while the present players are doing it as a team.
Osimhen added that what Maradona did for the Serie A giants cannot be forgotten stressing that there is no way the name of Napoli will be mentioned without remembering the late soccer star.
Kim Min-jae of Napoli has gained prominence quickly, andManchester United is reportedly looking into a possible transfer for the end of the season.
Kim, 26, played until he was 24 years old in China and Korea before being noticed by Fenerbahce, who paid €3 million to acquire him.
He spent one season in Turkey before being signed by Napoli for €18 million. He was a key component of their best season in the twenty-first century. He has participated in 22 of defending champions Napoli’s 23 Serie A games this season, starting every one of them.
The strong-built defender has established himself as one of the league’s top players, but unfortunately for Napoli, his contract has a surprisingly reasonable release clause.
According to Calciomercato, United have been targeting Kim for months and have been in contact with his agents to gauge his interest in a potential Premier League move.
Kim reportedly has a £44m (€50m) release clause in his contract, but Napoli officials are desperate to award him a new contract to at least raise that figure to their valuation of £61m (€70m).
Football London is reporting Arsenal have made 24-year-old West Ham midfielder Declan Rice their top target after acknowledging they will not be in the running for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham.
According to the Evening Standard, Arsenalwill have to battle Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, and Newcastle United to secure 18-year-old Real Valladolid full-back Ivan Fresnedain the next transfer window, with his £26.5 million (€30 million) release clause drawing plenty of interest.
Chelsea will allow midfielder Mason Mountto leave before the beginning of next season if he does not agree to a new contract, per The Athletic.
Sport Witness is reporting Everton had a £22 million (€25 million) offer for 25-year-old Udinese forwardBetorejected late in the January window, and it is believed they could return with an improved bid.
According to Football Insider, Tottenham are viewed as the favourites to land 26-year-oldLeicester City midfielder James Maddison, who will be allowed to leave the club if he does not sign an extension.
The knockout round of the 2022–23 Champions League tournament has begun, and the top teams in Europe are competing for a place in the quarterfinals.
Real Madrid advanced significantly to the round of eight with a 5-2 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, while Napoli, the undisputed Serie A champion, now leads by a score of 2-0 after defeating Eintracht Frankfurt.
To defeat Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea must overturn a 1-0 deficit, and Tottenham must do the same after losing to AC Milan.
In other matches, Bayern Munich will try to hold onto its 1-0 lead against Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg, and Benfica should eliminate Club Brugge with a two-goal cushion.
We tell you everything you need to know about the 2023 final as the teams strive to get one step closer to the prestigious continental trophy.
When is the 2023 Champions League final?
The 2023 Champions League final will take place on Saturday, June 10.
This date is later than last season’s showpiece, held on May 28, due to the change in the domestic football calendar thanks to the World Cup held last November and December in Qatar.
For supporters at the stadium, the game will kick off at 10 p.m. local time. For fans watching in the UK, the match will start at 8 p.m.
Where is the 2023 Champions League final?
Turkey will host the 2023 Champions League final, with the game held at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul.
The venue was opened in 2002, initially built for the country’s attempt to host the 2008 Olympics, which was ultimately awarded to Beijing, China.
Home to the Turkish national team, it will be the second time the ground has held the Champions League final, having been the location for the epic 2005 encounter between AC Milan and Liverpool.
Istanbul had been scheduled to host the 2020 showpiece, before the coronavirus pandemic resulted in the match being played at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal.
Then in 2021, the marquee fixture was once again moved to Portugal, this time to the Estadio do Dragao in Porto.
According to UEFA, the stadium has a capacity of over 75,000 people and is named after Turkey’s first president, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
The Georgian star cost around £9 million to join the Serie A frontrunners last summer, but he has been a revelation, dismantling defences both domestically and internationally.
Kvaratskhelia claims he loves living in Naples, but with teams like Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, and Manchester City all rumoured to be interested, a summer transfer is very likely.
We examine “Kvaradona” as Napoli gets ready to face Eintracht Frankfurt in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 matchup this evening.
Humble beginnings
Kvaratskhelia’s native Georgia does not exactly have a rich football history.
Manchester City fans of a bygone era will fondly remember Georgi Kinkladze, while the nation’s all-time top scorer Shota Arveladze was a regular at Rangers and recently had an ill-fated spell in charge of Championship side Hull.
At an elite level, defender Kakha Kaladze won Champions League titles with AC Milan in 2003 and 2007 — yet there is good reason to think Kvaratskhelia will surpass even his achievements in due course.
Wind the clock back 12 months from now and even the most committed football purist could be forgiven for not having the Rubin Kazan starlet on their radar.
He netted only twice in 19 Russian Premier League matches in 2021-22, before Russia’s conflict with Ukraine led to his contract being suspended.
He headed home to Dinamo Batumi, where eight goals in 11 games prompted Napoli to cough up a modest sum to bring him to Italy.
Securing that agreement ahead of the likes of Juventus and Roma has proved to be a masterstroke.
Few could have anticipated how quickly Napoli’s No77 would make his mark on top-level football, with his unpredictable and direct playing style proving a nightmare for opposition defences to contain.
Already, he has racked up 12 goals and 12 assists across 24 Serie A and Champions League matches this term, meaning the 19-cap international is operating at an average of one direct goal involvement per game.
That puts him in elite company indeed.
His club team-mate Victor Osimhen, Manchester City sensation Erling Haaland, Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski and the Paris Saint-Germain trio of Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar are the only others to do so in 2022-23 from Europe’s top leagues.
It is little wonder there is so much speculation around a possible transfer.
Attracting interest
Kvaratskhelia’s agent went public last week regarding speculation over his client’s future — though he stopped short of saying a move was on the cards.
Mamuka Jugeli told press in Italy: “There is a lot of interest from other clubs. Kvara, however, is only thinking about winning the Scudetto and Napoli’s matches in the Champions League.
“He told me that in terms of football in Italy, he sees himself only in Naples. He will never play for any other Italian club, apart from Napoli. He feels at home in Naples.”
That statement should at least reassure Partenopei supporters that their talisman will not be jumping ship to Juve, just as former star Gonzalo Higuain did back in 2016.
Whether or not that rules out a transfer to one of Europe’s other giants, however, remains to be seen.
Finding a fit
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is prone to shooting on sight for Napoli
Kvaratskhelia’s style certainly appears suited to some sides better than others.
While no club would turn their nose up at his league-leading assists tally or penchant for a jaw-dropping strike, the 22-year-old does not always make the correct decision.
Frequent moments of magic are also accompanied by errors. For example, to reach his impressive tally of 47 completed take-ons in Serie A this term, he has had to fail on 81 occasions.
His passing accuracy currently sits under 80%, while only 29 of his 75 shots this season have hit the target.
Teams such as Manchester City and Bayern Munich, who prefer to carefully craft their attacks through high possession and patient build-up, would potentially find the Georgian’s unpredictability problematic.
Made for Madrid
Perhaps somewhere like Real Madrid, where the game’s biggest mavericks have been given a platform to strut their stuff for many decades, could be ideal for Kvaratskhelia.
What is more, the man himself declared his love for Los Blancos in an interview during his time with Rubin Kazan that only surfaced recently.
“With my brothers, we were always watching their games and cheering them on.”
While Premier League giants will be hoping the youngster has had a change of heart, those comments suggest the LaLiga giants will be in pole position when a bidding war commences.
Right now, the dynamic attacker is trying to achieve his Champions League dream in Naples — and he may just do exactly that.
The Partenopei are getting ready for Tuesday’s first-leg match against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Napoli has never advanced past that point, but this year they have never appeared more capable.
In addition to dominating their Champions League group, Luciano Spalletti’s team is currently 15 points clear at the top of Serie A.
Napoli won five of their six European matches before the World Cup break, thrashing Liverpool 4-1 and Ajax 6-1 along the way.
The competition will ramp up now, but Costacurta, who was a five-time European champion with Milan, does not see any team better than Napoli.
“I don’t want this to pass as nonsense, but in terms of approach and attitude, Napoli are the strongest in Europe,” he told Il Mattino.
“Obviously there are the others, and we know perfectly well that a competition like the Champions League is capable of drawing out of the players those motivations that maybe don’t exist in the league. But I’m sure about one thing.
“At the moment, Napoli are stronger than Manchester City and all the others.”
Costacurta added: “The strongest teams in Europe have not yet given great shows of strength in their leagues.
“He’s an incredible player and I don’t know where he came from,” the former defender said. “Where the hell was he up until six months ago?”
Napoli’s dominance in Italy has been aided by difficult seasons for many of their rivals, but Costacurta suggested Inter’s Serie A form showed they are “distracted” by the Champions League.
“For Napoli, I dream of a spectacular final with PSG, because in this way you enter a different dimension of history,” he said.
“But I admit that I would also like a good all-Italian final also, because if we want to be honest, I’m the only one who played a semi-final and a final against another Italian team in the Champions League.”
Felix Afena-Gyan, a Ghanaian international, came off the bench to score a header and the game-winning penalty for U.S. Cremonese against SSC Napoli on Tuesday night.
His club eliminated SSC Napoli from the Coppa Italia this season thanks to the pivotal goal.
Felix Afena-Gyan, who has lacked consistency since leaving AS Roma to join U.S. Cremonese, came on as a second-half substitute for his team in the away cup game today.
Charles Picket’s equalizer in the 18th minute gave the visitors a startling lead in the game.
Later in the first half before the break, goals from Juan Jesus and Giovanne Simeone turned things around for Napoli as the giants took a 2-1 lead into the break.
Thanks to the resilience of U.S Cremonese, the team forced the match to enter extra time courtesy of a late strike from Ghana striker Felix Afena-Gyan.
🇬🇭 Felix Afena-Gyan comes on in the 65th minute and scores a crucial goal against Napoli to keep Cremonese’s hopes alive in the Coppa Italia.
The tightly contested game is currently in extra time with nothing to separate the two sides pic.twitter.com/KaLIWTNTfb
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, a winger for Napoli who has said he “feels so at home” with the Serie Aleaders, has “absolutely no chance” of quitting the team, according to Cristiano Giuntoli, the club’s director.
The Georgian international, who joined Napoli from Dinamo Batumi in July, has been crucial to the team’s successful start to the campaign, which has seen Luciano Spalletti’s team lead Serie A by eight points.
No player has contributed to more goals directly this season than Kvaratskhelia (11; six goals, five assists), and only teammate Victor Osimhen, who leads the Italian top flight in goals scored, has a higher total (nine).
The 21-year-old’s performances have generated interest from several clubs, with Premier League side Newcastle United reportedly making him their top target and set to offer £50 million (€57.3m) in the forthcoming January transfer window.
But when asked about the speculation, Giuntoli told SportExpress: “There is absolutely no chance of us letting him leave, regardless of how much the offer is.”
Meanwhile, Kvaratskhelia feels settled in Naples, telling students during an event at the Federico II University: “Neapolitans live for football, I realised that from the very first moment I arrived here.
“The first time I played at the Stadio Maradona is when I truly felt like a professional footballer. The people of Naples expect a lot from us, so it’s important to always work at the highest level. I thank them, because they give us so much love.
“Neapolitans and Georgians both put family first and foremost, which is also why I feel so at home here.”
Unbeaten league leaders Napoli could be set for their toughest test of the season — a trip to second-placed Atalanta.
Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho’s Roma host Lazio in the first Derby della Capitale of 2022-23.
Juventus face Inter Milan in yet another titanic clash as the pair look to maintain their recent strong form and climb up the table.
Elsewhere, reigning champions AC Milan host Spezia, while relegation-threatened Lecce travel to Udinese.
Game of the week: Atalanta vs Napoli (Saturday, 5pm)
Napoli are flying high and sit five points clear at Serie A’s summit.
Luciano Spalletti’s side have won eight league games in succession, including each of their last four away from home.
Additionally, the Partenopei have trailed for the fewest minutes of any team this term (46).
However, their next opponents Atalanta have only been behind for 84 minutes themselves — the fourth-best record in the division.
Furthermore, the Bergamo-based outfit have found the net in each of their last eight league games against Napoli, so will fancy their chances of getting on the scoresheet this Saturday.
Roma vs Lazio (Sunday, 5pm)
No Serie A player has registered more assists than Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s seven in 2022-23
Roma and Lazio head into this derby separated by just a point and a place in the table.
Encouragingly for the Giallorossi, they have only lost twice at home to their rivals in their last 24 Serie A meetings (14 wins, eight draws).
In the era of three points for a win, this fixture has produced more red cards than any other in Italy’s top tier (35). However, only one of those has come in the last six clashes.
Juventus vs Inter Milan (Sunday, 7.45pm)
Nicolo Barella has been a key creative figure for Inter Milan this term
Both these teams come into this heavyweight clash in excellent form after disappointing starts to their respective seasons.
Juventus have won each of their last three Serie A games without conceding, while Inter Milan are on a four-match league winning streak — scoring at least twice in each of those victories.
Sunday’s hosts have been much more solid at the back than their counterparts, though. In Europe’s top five leagues, only Barcelona have shipped fewer goals (four) than the Bianconeri’s seven, while the Nerazzurri have conceded 17 times.
However, Inter boss Simone Inzaghi has beaten Juventus seven times in 18 games as a manager since April 2016 (two draws, nine defeats) — more than any other head coach in that period.
AC Milan vs Spezia (Saturday, 7.45pm)
Spezia shocked AC Milan when they visited the San Siro last season
Third-placed AC Milan have made a solid start to their title defence.
In 2022, they have kept nine league clean sheets at home. Only Liverpool and Real Sociedad (both 10) have managed more in Europe’s top five leagues.
Spezia, meanwhile, have lost each of their six Serie A away games in 2022-23 without scoring — Sampdoria are the only other side in the competition who have failed to score in half their league outings this term.
Udinese vs Lecce (Friday, 7.45pm)
Udinese have failed to win any of their last four Serie A outings after a strong start to the campaign — though a clash with struggling Lecce offers a good chance to end that run.
Le Zebrette have won 11 of their 14 home league encounters with Friday’s opponents (three defeats) and the Giallorossi have taken fewer shots (101) than any other side in the division.
This fixture has a lower percentage of draws than any other Serie A clash to have been played at least 12 times (3.6% — one out of 28).
Luciano Spalletti says Napoli will “not be fooled” by Liverpool’s recent struggles, nor by Jurgen Klopp suggesting the Reds cannot record an emphatic victory to top their Champions League group.
Klopp’s side must defeat Napoli by four goals at Anfield on Tuesday to win Group A, having been thrashed 4-1 by Napoli on matchday one in the reverse fixture before recovering with four successive wins.
While Liverpool progressed to the knockout stages with a game to spare, the Reds have struggled in the Premier League this season, sitting ninth in the table – some 15 points behind leaders Arsenal.
Klopp heralded the potential of Napoli on Monday, suggesting a four-goal victory would be near-impossible as he backed the Serie A side to reach the final, though Spalletti took the praise with a pinch of salt.
“I think I’ve read that he said they don’t think about winning 4-0 … I think he said it seriously,” the Napoli coach said in a jovial manner.
“If he said it seriously that he can’t win 4-0 if he wants to, let’s talk about it! Excessive compliments sometimes serve to lift you up and then smash you down.
“[Klopp] made the last two Champions League finals, so he is better than everyone, he and his team. We accept compliments if they are sincere, but compliments do not make results and standings.
“We know the game will be very hard. We will have to be the same as always, as in the first leg, and it is almost impossible to repeat that match.
“To finish first or second, everything changes, it seems stupid to answer whether we want to win or not – we came here with the best intentions possible.
“Then there is a stage like Anfield, against those players there, and we will have to prove that we are up to it.”
AC Milan will be looking to close the gap on table-toppers Napoli but face a tricky test at Torino this Sunday.
Stefano Pioli’s men will likely need to pick up all three points to stay in touch with their in-form rivals, who host Sassuolo at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
But Il Toro should be full of confidence after ending a run of five league games without victory by beating surprise package Udinese 2-1 last weekend.
Elsewhere, strugglers Lecce take on Juventus, Inter Milan face relegation-threatened Sampdoria and Roma head to Verona on Monday evening.
Game of the week: Torino vs AC Milan (Sunday, 7.45pm)
AC Milan should fancy their chances in Turin — they are unbeaten in 17 Serie A away matches (won 12, drawn five) and have not lost to Torino in their previous seven encounters.
Sunday’s hosts have failed to score a single Serie A goal against their upcoming opponents in 464 minutes after losing four league meetings in a row before registering a 0-0 draw last April.
The smart money might be on these teams sharing the points.
Torino have drawn seven of their last 11 home meetings with the Rossoneri — more than against any other team since 2006-07.
Napoli vs Sassuolo (Saturday, 2pm)
Napoli continue to steamroller all that come before them — and Sassuolo are next in the firing line.
The visitors will be hoping to avoid the 6-1 hammering they suffered at the hands of Luciano Spalletti’s side last season but the form guide certainly favours the Neapolitans.
They have won 18 of their last 20 matches in all competitions and have not tasted defeat since last April.
Another triumph would equal Napoli’s best start after 12 matches (32 points), as well as Spalletti’s longest winning streak in Serie A (eight games).
Victor Osimhen scored his fourth Serie A goal of the season against Roma last weekend
Lecce vs Juventus (Saturday, 5pm)
Lecce will not want to consult the history books before this fixture — they have only won four of 32 Serie A matches against Juventus.
A draw may be a more realistic outcome though, with the hosts registering a 1-1 scoreline in each of their last four home league games.
But Marco Baroni’s outfit will need to nullify Juve’s threat from corners and free-kicks to get a result.
The Old Lady have scored an impressive eight set-piece goals in 2022-23, while Lecce have conceded a league-high nine times from such scenarios.
Inter Milan vs Sampdoria (Saturday, 7.45pm)
Lautaro Martinez netted a brace in Inter Milan’s 4-3 triumph at Fiorentina on Matchday 11
Inter Milan striker Edin Dzeko has gone seven home league games without scoring but should be confident of ending that run on Saturday.
The veteran striker bagged a brace against Viktoria Plzen on Wednesday night and has scored six Serie A goals against Sampdoria in his career.
Dejan Stankovic’s team will be also need to be wary of in-form attacker Lautaro Martinez, who has been involved in four goals in his last two league appearances.
He has registered more shots (43) and efforts on target (15) than any other player in Italy’s top flight this term.
Verona vs Roma (Monday, 5.30pm)
Roma drew 2-2 with Verona when the two sides last met
Things could not be going much worse for Verona, who have lost six Serie A games in a row for just the third time in their history.
And it will be a challenge to stop that run against Roma, who have won three successive league matches away from home.
The Giallorossi are specialists when it comes to picking up points against struggling teams.
They have recorded five victories and two draws from their previous seven encounters with sides in the bottom three — though their last defeat to a club in the drop zone was against Verona in September 2021.
Rangers’ slim hopes of playing Europa League football in the new year are all but over following a 3-0 defeat to Napoli in Naples, heaping further pressure upon Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
The Scottish side needed a result and a favour from Liverpool against Ajax to retain a realistic chance of finishing third, and while Jurgen Klopp’s side did their part, Rangers were swept aside by the Serie A leaders.
Napolitook the lead after just 11 minutes, Giovanni Simeone rifling home after Giovanni Di Lorenzo teed him up, and the forward was on the scoresheet again five minutes later as he tucked home Mario Rui’s cross.
Tanguy Ndombele’s fierce strike from outside the box clattered off the bar before the break, while the second half saw Alfredo Morelos fail to connect from close range in the visitors’ best chance of the game.
Any hope of a late comeback was crushed 10 minutes from the final whistle when Leo Ostigard was left unmarked and headed home Giacomo Raspadori’s corner.
With Rangers three points behind Ajax and having lost their first meeting 4-0, Van Bronckhorst’s side need a remarkable result in Amsterdam next week to clinch third place and Europa League football.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was an unknown quantity when the Champions League began in September — not any more.
The Napoli star has taken Serie A and Europe by storm after moving from Dinamo Batumi for a paltry £9million in the summer.
A combined seven goals and eight assists in all competitions mean the Georgia international is fast becoming a household name.
Ahead of Rangers’ visit to Naples tonight, we assess what the future holds for the man known as Kvara.
Bargain buy
Kvara was a Rubin Kazan player at the start of 2022 but Russia’s invasion of Ukraine saw his contract suspended.
He moved to Batumi in his native and netted eight times in 11 games before Napoli made their move for the 21-year-old.
Director Cristiano Giuntoli said: “The first time I watched Khvicha in action was during the lockdown.
“He was playing for Rubin Kazan, but they wanted €30m, so we immediately ended negotiations.
“When the war in Ukraine began, he returned to Georgia to Dinamo Batumi, so we rushed there with a contract and signed him for €10m.
“We were quicker than Roma, Juventus and Real Sociedad. He’s always been on our radar.”
Now the richest clubs in Europe are being linked with him, including Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Quick start
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has impressed in his four Champions League games so far
Even though they had been monitoring the Georgian for a couple of years, Napoli would not have imagined him hitting the ground running quite like he has.
A goal and assist on debut against Verona were followed by four strikes in his next seven Serie A games.
And he netted in both Napoi’s victories over Ajax in Group A — leading to comparisons with club legend Diego Maradona and the nickname “Kvaradona”, not that he thinks the association is warranted.
Kvara said: “Great responsibility comes with being mentioned in the same sentence as him.
“I can’t come close to Maradona, but I will give my all to be a big player for this club. Obviously, I like the nickname.”
Joy to watch
Veteran Russian boss Yuri Semin recently said: “Let’s not forget that the Georgians are well accustomed to skill. In the days of the USSR, they were called the Brazilians of the Soviet Union.”
And that is certainly true of Kvara, whose unique dribbling skill where he almost does not lift his head, has made him a joy to watch.
His 57 take-ons attempted this term rank first in Serie A with the 19 he has completed also top, while he has created 20 chances and eight big chances.
Only Ciro Immobile, Tammy Abraham and Lautaro Martinez have had more than his 12 shots on target and only strikers have scored more than his five goals.
He has a huge part of the reason Napoli are sitting at the top of Serie A at the moment.
Unbeaten Serie A leaders Napoliare in irresistible form — but Jose Mourinho’s resurgent Roma will be aiming to stop the Partenopei in their tracks this Sunday.
Elsewhere, it is second versus fifth as Atalanta look to preserve their own unbeaten run against a dangerous Lazio side.
Meanwhile, reigning champions AC Milan can keep the pressure on at the top when they host mid-table Monza, who have put a little distance between themselves and the relegation zone.
The Rossoneri’s city rivals Inter Milan travel to face Fiorentina, while inconsistent Juventus host Empoli.
Game of the week: Roma vs Napoli (Sunday, 7.45pm)
History appears to be in Napoli’s favour as they bid to extend their winning run in all competitions to 11 games in Rome.
The visitors have lost just one of their last eight meetings with Roma (four wins, three draws).
Additionally, Sunday’s hosts are winless in their last 12 at home in the league against opponents occupying a top-four spot at the beginning of the matchday (seven draws, five defeats).
However, Roma are on a three-game winning streak in Serie A — and Mourinho will be keen to claim four victories on the trot for the first time since arriving in the Italian capital.
These two sides are the league’s set-piece specialists, scoring more goals from dead-ball situations since the start of last season (35 for Napoli, 31 for Roma) than any other team.
Atalanta vs Lazio (Sunday, 5pm)
Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic is the leading assist provider in Serie A
Atalanta also have an unbeaten run to protect — but Lazio will provide a stern test of their credentials.
The hosts boast a strong record in this fixture having lost just one of their last 10 league games against Lazio (four wins, five draws) and have only claimed more Serie A victories in their history against Bologna (37) than the Biancocelesti (36).
However, Atalanta have conceded more goals against Lazio since Gian Piero Gasperini took over (22) than they have against any other side — so expect another entertaining clash this time around.
These two outfits top the league’s charts for minutes spent in leading positions (402 for Lazio, 397 for Atalanta) and will be hoping to extend their respective records on Sunday.
AC Milan vs Monza (Saturday, 5pm)
AC Milan have been one of Serie A’s most dangerous teams going forward in 2022-23
AC Milan are third — three points off table-toppers Napoli — and will be keen to avoid a slip-up against Monza.
Encouragingly for the Rossoneri, they have won each of their last six Serie A games at home against promoted sides without conceding.
The last time Milan picked up seven wins from their first 10 league outings as reigning champions was 1992-93 — and they went on to retain the title that year.
Monza may not expect to beat the holders but they can be encouraged by their season so far, with 10 points after 10 games. Only four promoted teams have been relegated from Serie A from that position in the last 20 seasons.
Fiorentina vs Inter Milan (Saturday, 7.45pm)
Inter are enduring a disappointing campaign, sitting seventh after 10 games — but are beginning to inch their way back up the table.
The Nerazzurri are unbeaten in their last 12 meetings with Saturday’s opponents Fiorentina (seven wins, five draws).
Additionally, La Viola are in poor form, having won just three of their last 14 outings (six draws, five defeats) and have only scored eight league goals this term.
Inter have both netted and conceded in each of their last nine Serie A away clashes though, with at least three goals scored in every match during that run (33 total).
Juventus vs Empoli (Friday, 7.45pm)
Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic is joint-top of the Serie A goalscoring charts
Juventus are also having a challenging season and will hope to elevate themselves above eighth by beating Empoli.
The Old Lady have lost just one of their last 18 Serie A meetings with their next opponents (15 wins, two draws).
This may be a low-scoring encounter, with Juventus managing five clean sheets this term — conceding only seven times — while Empoli have shipped just 11 goals.
Max Allegri’s men rank third in the league for set-piece strikes with six — but Empoli have only conceded once from such situations this term, the joint-lowest tally in the division.
Brighton have announced that Roberto De Zerbiv will be taking over from Graham Potter as the new head coach.
Roberto De Zerbiv has signed a four year deal with the club. The deal was sealed at the Amex Stadium on Sunday.
De Zerbi takes charge with Brighton fourth in the Premier League following an impressive start to the season under Potter, who departed for Chelsea on September 8, having taken 13 points from their opening six games.
The 43-year-old, who had been out of work since leaving Shakhtar Donetsk in July because of the war in Ukraine, will first take charge of Brighton away at Liverpool on October 1.
We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as the club’s new head coach! 🤝 pic.twitter.com/tNoNZfFaxQ
Albion chairman Tony Bloom told the club’s official website: “I am absolutely thrilled Roberto has agreed to become our new head coach.
“Roberto’s teams play an exciting and courageous brand of football, and I am confident his style and tactical approach will suit our existing squad superbly.”
De Zerbi also brings Serie A experience to the Brighton dugout, having managed Palermo, Benevento and Sassuolo in the Italian top flight.
The former Milan and Napoli attacking midfielder notablyguided Sassuolo to successive eighth-place finishes during his three-year stint with the Italian side.
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said: “We looked at a range of excellent candidates but Roberto was our number one choice from the start and the only person we spoke to.
“It’s no secret our chairman is constantly monitoring potential coaches, both here in our domestic leagues, throughout Europe and across the world as part of our succession planning work.
“We feel Roberto is the ideal cultural and technical fit for Brighton and Hove Albion, and the right person to continue the club’s progress and work with this outstanding group of players.”
Chelsea’s Kalidou Koulibaly has said he will continue to represent his national team, Senegal, at every Africa Cup of Nations irrespective of comments by relevant stakeholders in the sport.
“Nobody can tell me not to go to my national team. I have a lot of love for my national team, the team that I play for. But me, now as captain of Senegal, when AFCON comes I have to be the first one there, the first one in Senegal.”
His comment comes in the wake of Aurelio De Laurentiis’ statement that Napoli will avoid signing any more African players unless they agree not to play in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Kalidou Koulibaly, who is Chelsea’s new signing was with Napoli. At his former club, games while on international duty at this year’s tournament, which took place in January and February.
Speaking with Smart Talk on Wall Street Italia, Kalidou revealed that “Nobody ever told me not to go to AFCON” while at Napoli.
He stated that the comments from Aurelio De Laurentiis are not the best since a player’s national team is dear to his or her heart.
“So, if someone told me to do that, it would be the only time that I can fight with somebody. The way we feel all the time with my national team, we are all respectful, we wait for players to come from the Premier League, and everybody is happy to be here,” he said.
“Everybody thinks the same as me in the national team. If someone told them not to come they would always fight to come,” Kalidou added.
According to him, it is imperative that all players are given the same respect irrespective of their origin.
“This is the most important thing. Everybody has to give us respect,” he said.
Koulibaly has signed a four-year contract with Chelsea following the purchase of the club by US businessman Todd Boehly’s consortium.
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