Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has expressed his anguish after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), saying: “Why me? I was not ready for this.” The injury ends his season early and deals a major blow to PSG’s hopes of winning a third consecutive Champions League title.
Surgery Confirmed After Barcelona Clash
A statement on the club’s website confirmed the extent of the injury: “Having suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during yesterday’s match against FC Barcelona, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is set to undergo surgery in the coming days.” The Georgian international was forced off shortly before the hour mark in PSG’s 4-2 win over Barcelona on Tuesday.
In a social media post, Kvaratskhelia questioned his misfortune, writing: “Why me? I was not ready for this. Many people have asked me questions about this setback, many have said that if all the footballers in the world prayed, the match would end in a draw. That might be true, but before every match I play, I ask God to leave the field unscathed, but in vain.”
Emotional Response and Road to Recovery
He added: “It hasn't been long, but it's still in my head - why me, actually? I've never missed anything, probably prepared for this game the best I've ever prepared. I thought I was prepared for everything, but no, and I realise that God has chosen me and if I was protecting the players on another field, I'm ready to go through these months of work, pain, tears.”
Kvaratskhelia promised to return stronger: “I know I have to come back stronger for my people who always support me, I won't let you down, I promise I won't waste a second. Thank you all for your support, see you soon.”
Impact on PSG Squad
The Ballon d’Or nominee twisted his knee after chasing Barcelona’s Xavi Espart and was unable to put weight on his right leg as he was helped off the field. He was one of three PSG stars injured in the game, though Ousmane Dembele and Marquinhos’ issues are believed to keep the pair out for only a matter of weeks.
Complete rehabilitation for an ACL rupture can take between nine to 12 months after surgery. PSG manager Luis Enrique said after the match: “I am not a doctor. I only know that all three are injured. That is the worst thing about today’s match. We have to wait until tomorrow to know exactly, after the tests they will undergo. But three injuries, three very important players, it’s the worst news. But that’s how high-level football is.”
Season Outlook
Kvaratskhelia has scored 29 goals in 91 appearances for PSG since joining from Napoli in January 2025 for around £59million. PSG remain unbeaten in the Champions League with wins over Manchester City and Barcelona, but sit second in Ligue 1 after seven games, level on points with leaders Lyon, who top the table on goal difference.
