As Napoli prepare for a crucial match against Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium, sporting director Giovanni Manna addressed the media about recent developments within the team, including the departure of star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The match is significant for both teams, with Napoli looking to extend their lead at the top of the Serie A table and Atalanta aiming to close the gap.
In his remarks to Sky Sport, Manna reflected on how the team has responded to Kvaratskhelia’s exit. “How did the team react to Kvara’s departure? Well, they are focused, and the coach knows what to do. Kvicha explicitly asked to leave and requested not to be called up for the last match,” he explained.
Manna expressed confidence in head coach Antonio Conte’s ability to navigate this challenging situation. “Conte knows what to do in these occasions. Has he not dubbed this a Scudetto challenge? It’s an important match between two teams that play good football. In the first leg, they were superior; now we hope to turn that result around.”
Addressing Kvaratskhelia’s departure further, Manna stated, “What should Kvara tell? You should ask him; I can say that the player wanted to leave by requesting a transfer. We were working on a renewal that was complicated, even though we were well on track.” He added that financial expectations and salary levels led to what he described as “an almost mandatory choice.”
Manna emphasized the need for Napoli to focus on the present and future: “Let’s stay focused on the present and future; Kvicha is part of the past.”
Looking ahead, he mentioned potential transfers, particularly regarding Garnacho: “We are evaluating options; we must not let ourselves be swept away by frenzy. There is anticipation; we will be ready but under Napoli’s conditions.” He also commented on Neres, stating, “He is not a player we are discovering today.”
