Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Hvica Kvaratskeria are keen to “learn and improve” alongside coach Antonio Conte after Napoli's first win of the new era, but the Georgian coach has shown particular dedication.
The Partenopei are without a win in Serie A since their game against Monza on April 7, with their last win at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium coming all the way back in March.
Tonight they beat Bologna 3-0 with goals from Di Lorenzo, Kvaratsheria and Giovanni Simeone, the final goal coming off an assist from debutant David Neres.
It was only fitting that Di Lorenzo scored the opening goal, as he had come close to leaving the club this summer after what he felt was a lack of trust and affection and had tried to force his way out.
“As I have said many times, it has been a strange summer, but the fact that so many 'emotions' have been unleashed towards me means that the people love me and I feel that love every time I step on the field. I owe them a lot and it was a strong emotion to score here,” Di Lorenzo told DAZN.
It was Conte who brokered and persuaded the captain to stay, claiming that he and Kvaratskheria are key figures in the team.
“The coach was honest with me straight away and I appreciate what he said. We have just started working together. I don't know what will happen this season, but I am sure that under Conte we will grow both individually and as a team. So I am happy that he will be with us.”
Kvaratskeria becomes a father, Di Lorenzo remains captain
It was a special week for Kvaratskeria as he celebrated his wife giving birth to their first child, a baby boy named Damian.
Naturally, after scoring tonight he sucked his thumb in sympathy for his newborn baby. Perhaps this wonderful moment gave him extra courage?
“As you saw on the pitch, I was full of energy and I gave it everything, so it's very important. I'm very happy to come here and win with the team, I'm really happy,” the Georgian told DAZN.
Has Conte's arrival persuaded him to stay at Napoli after a disappointing season?
“That was a big thing. I'm happy to have him with me. I learned a lot from him and I'd like to do more with him.”