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Conte concedes Napoli's title hopes take hit with Kvaratskhelia's departure

17 January, 14:16

Napoli manager Antonio Conte believes that the impending departure of star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to Paris Saint-Germain means that the Partenopei are now a "different team" to the one that won the Scudetto two years ago.

Kvaratskhelia is currently in Paris, having completed his medical tests with PSG ahead of a big-money move from Napoli.

Conte, speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, highlighted the significance of Kvaratskhelia's departure, as well as the summer exits of Victor Osimhen and Piotr Zielinski.

"We've gained 47 points through great work, but if we analyse objectively, this team is now without three players compared to last year: Osimhen, Kvara, and Zielinski," Conte said.

"It's a different Napoli now. With Kvara's departure, it's a different team to the Scudetto-winning one."

Conte was also asked about potential replacements for Kvaratskhelia, specifically whether David Neres would be an adequate substitute.

However, Conte deferred to the club's directors, stating that his focus is on the current team and preparing for their upcoming match against Atalanta on Saturday.

Napoli will face a tough test in Serie A as they travel to Bergamo to face Gian Piero Gasperini's Atalanta.