Kvaratskhelia set for surgery after rupturing ACL against Barcelona

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is set for surgery after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee during Paris Saint-Germain's 4-2 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League. The Georgian winger was forced off in the 59th minute and tests confirmed the worst-case scenario, leaving the European champions without one of their most influential attacking players for a long stretch.

• Kvaratskhelia ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in a challenge with Xavi Espart and will undergo surgery.
• He was substituted in the 59th minute after being unable to put weight on his right leg.
• PSG have not provided a return date, but the injury typically requires several months of recovery.
• Ousmane Dembele and Marquinhos will be out for 'a few weeks' with thigh injuries.

How Kvaratskhelia suffered the knee injury against Barcelona

The incident took place in the second half at the Parc des Princes. Kvaratskhelia went into a challenge with Xavi Espart and his right knee buckled. The Georgian stayed down and, when he tried to get up, he could not support his weight on the leg, so the coaching staff took him off before the hour mark.

It was his first start of the Champions League campaign. His season had been building momentum and the forward felt ready to establish himself in a side chasing a third straight European crown.

Kvaratskhelia's message after the ACL rupture was confirmed

Before every game I play I ask God to leave the field healthy, but in vain. I probably prepared for this game better than I ever have. I thought I was ready for everything. I realise that God chose me and, if I protected the players on another field, I am ready to go through these months of hard work, pain and 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.

The 25-year-old joined the French capital from Napoli in January 2025 and has been central to PSG winning back-to-back Champions League titles. This season he has made eleven appearances for the club across all competitions.

Dembele and Marquinhos also injured as PSG's medical list grows

The club's injury update did not stop with Kvaratskhelia. Ousmane Dembele limped off with a problem in his left thigh, while Marquinhos picked up an issue in his right thigh. Both players will be sidelined for a few weeks, piling pressure on a squad facing a demanding run of Ligue 1 fixtures and a Champions League title defence.

The injuries force Luis Enrique to reshuffle both his attacking options and his central defence. The club has not set precise recovery timelines for either player, but the pair are expected to miss upcoming domestic matches and the next round of the group phase.

PSG's win over Barcelona keeps them perfect in the Champions League

The 4-2 result was far from straightforward for the home side. The score was level at 2-2 with ten minutes left at the Parc des Princes. PSG struck twice late on to make it three wins from three matches and stay top of their group standings.

The perfect start in Europe contrasts with growing concern over the treatment room. The coaching staff will have to manage minutes and rotations while waiting for three important players to recover in a season built around retaining the continental title.

What Kvaratskhelia's absence means for Luis Enrique's attack

The Georgian had operated as a versatile piece in the front line, capable of starting from the left wing or drifting inside. His absence removes dribbling, goals and a constant one-on-one threat that PSG will need to replace through options such as Bradley Barcola or other alternatives available to the Spanish coach.