Kvaratskhelia vows to come back stronger as Cristiano Ronaldo sends emotional support to PSG star

Paris Saint-Germain's Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has vowed to return stronger after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in the UEFA Champions League clash with Barcelona.

PSG have confirmed that Kvaratskhelia, who was injured in the 4-2 Champions League victory over Barcelona, will undergo surgery. The 25-year-old, who needed assistance to reach the touchline after a challenge with Xavi Espart in the 59th minute, is not expected to play again for the rest of the season.

Kvaratskhelia's injury is a major blow for the French side, who were already rocked by injuries to Ousmane Dembélé and Marquinhos in the same game against Barcelona, as well as the absence of Nuno Mendes, who missed the crucial encounter at the Parc des Princes.

Addressing supporters on social media, Kvaratskhelia thanked them for their backing and stressed that he would not waste a single second during his long rehabilitation:

"Before every game I play, I ask God to let me walk off the pitch healthy, but sometimes this happens. It is still very fresh, but the same question keeps going round in my head: why me? Maybe I had prepared for this game better than I have ever prepared in my life. I thought I was ready for everything, but I wasn't. I know God has chosen me, and I am ready to spend these months working, through pain and tears. I have to come back stronger for the people who have always supported me. I won't let you down, I promise I won't waste a single second. Thank you all for your support. See you soon."

Having joined PSG from Napoli in January 2025, the Georgian winger quickly established himself as one of Europe's most effective attackers and played a key role in the Parisian club's success. In 91 appearances in all competitions for the French side, he has scored 29 goals and provided 18 assists, contributing directly to 47 goals. At the capital club, Kvaratskhelia has won 2 Champions League titles and 9 trophies in total, including a goal in the historic 5-0 win over Inter in the 2024-25 final.

Leading the messages of support for Kvaratskhelia was world-famous star Cristiano Ronaldo. In a post aimed at lifting his fellow professional, Ronaldo wrote:

"The toughest battles in football are often fought in the moments no one sees. I know this feeling all too well, Kvara. Never forget what brought you here, and don't let one difficult moment make you doubt how far you can go. Keep that fire burning. Your best days are still ahead of you."