PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to Undergo ACL Surgery After Barcelona Clash
Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is set for a significant period out of action after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the club’s recent Champions League fixture against Barcelona. The French champions confirmed the devastating news, stating that the player will undergo surgery in the coming days.
The injury occurred during the 59th minute of PSG’s 4-2 victory at the Parc des Princes. Kvaratskhelia went down heavily following a challenge from Barcelona’s Xavi Espart and was unable to put weight on his right leg, necessitating his substitution. The severity of the injury was immediately apparent, with fears of a major knee problem quickly surfacing.
Kvaratskhelia, who was named the Champions League’s best player last season, took to Instagram to express his emotions following the diagnosis. He shared a heartfelt message with his supporters, reflecting on the unexpected setback. “Before every game I play I ask God to leave the field healthy, but in vain,” he wrote. “I probably prepared for this game the best I have ever prepared for. I thought I was prepared for everything.”
The Georgian international added, “I realise that God chose me and if I protected the players on another field, I’m ready to go through these months of hard work, pain, tears. I know I have to come back stronger for my people who always have my back. I won’t let you down, I promise, I won’t waste a second.”
Long Road to Recovery Expected
An ACL rupture is one of the most significant injuries a footballer can face, typically resulting in an absence of at least nine months. While medical advancements have improved recovery times, it is highly probable that Kvaratskhelia will miss the remainder of the current season. This blow comes at a critical juncture for PSG, who are aiming for a third consecutive Champions League title.
Kvaratskhelia, 25, has been a pivotal figure for Paris Saint-Germain since his move from Napoli in January 2025. He played a crucial role in the club’s back-to-back Champions League triumphs and was nominated for the Ballon d’Or following his stellar performances last season. He has featured 11 times for PSG this season, contributing to their strong start in both domestic and European competitions.
Other Injury Concerns for PSG
The victory over Barcelona was not without further cost for Paris Saint-Germain. The club also confirmed that forward Ousmane Dembele and captain Marquinhos will be sidelined for several weeks due to thigh injuries sustained during the same match. Dembele limped off with an issue in his left thigh, while Marquinhos suffered an injury to his right thigh.
The absence of these key players, particularly Kvaratskhelia, presents a significant challenge for PSG manager Luis Enrique. While the club made substantial investments in their attacking depth during the summer, bringing in players like Maghnes Akliouche, Ferran Torres, and Mika Godts for considerable fees, none are direct replacements for Kvaratskhelia’s unique impact.
The team’s ability to rotate and maintain freshness for crucial Champions League ties, a strategy that has served them well in previous seasons, may now be tested. With Kvaratskhelia out and Dembele requiring careful management, Luis Enrique will need to find creative solutions to maintain his side’s attacking potency and depth throughout the demanding campaign.
PSG currently sit top of their Champions League group with a perfect record of three wins from three matches, having defeated Manchester City and Barcelona by identical 4-2 scorelines. Domestically, they are also performing strongly, sitting second in Ligue 1.
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