And your nickname: ‘Kvaradona’. How do you feel about that? You’ve just mentioned Maradona, but that’s quite an honour, to have the fans see such similarities between the two of you.
Yeah, of course, because Maradona is the god of Napoli. To be compared to him, it feels so good. But, of course, I can't compare myself with him because he's one of the best football players in all of history. Naturally I am incredibly proud that the fans call me ‘Kvaradona’, it means a lot to me.
You have a very distinctive style of football – you're really expressive and creative with the ball at your feet. How did you develop that style? Have you always played like that, even when you were a child?
After training I would continue to play with my friends for hours in a small stadium in Georgia. That’s where I developed the technique I use today. Playing with freedom is always the best way to play football.
Just the love of the game. When we were outside and you were doing kick-ups for the camera, I could see your face just smiling.
I love this sport, and I try to enjoy it every moment. Whether that’s on the pitch or in front of a camera. When I have a ball at my feet, I am the happiest I can be.
You've had some incredible Champions League performances. What does it feel like when you hear that iconic Champions League anthem before you play?
For me, it’s a dream. Even in my dreams, I couldn't imagine that one day I would stand and listen to it in the stadium. It was amazing, the first time hearing it. And when everybody finished the song, Napoli sang “the champions!”, and it was amazing. It was an incredible feeling and a dream come true. It gave me the motivation to work even harder than I am now.
There's a lot of excitement around your name, and you're one of the top players in Europe right now. How has your life changed since you've been received and seen like that?
It's difficult. Everybody is watching you, and they look to you as an example. Also in Georgia, the kids love me, so I have to be a role model for them. I have to be calm, humble, and I try to do my best on the pitch and also outside of football.
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