Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed that star forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia will miss the remainder of the 2026-27 season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Tuesday’s Champions League win over Barcelona.
The 25-year-old Georgian international was forced off in the 59th minute following a collision with Barcelona’s Xavi Espart. Medical staff carried him from the pitch, and scans later revealed the full extent of the damage. PSG announced that Kvaratskhelia will undergo surgery “in the coming days.”
PSG confirm the diagnosis
In an official statement, the club said: “Having suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during yesterday’s match against FC Barcelona, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia will undergo surgery in the coming days.”
No return date has been given. ACL recoveries typically require at least nine months, which effectively ends Kvaratskhelia’s campaign with the reigning Champions League winners. The former Napoli attacker had been one of PSG’s most dangerous players this season before the setback.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s emotional response
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia addressed supporters on Instagram shortly after the news broke. He wrote: “Many people asked me about this stand, many said that if all the footballers in the world prayed, the game would end in a draw. This could be true but before every game I play I ask God to leave the field healthy but in vain. It hasn’t been a long time, but it’s still on my mind – why me anyway? I have never missed anything probably I prepared for this game the best I have ever prepared for. I thought I was prepared for everything, but not, and I realize that God chose me and if I protected the players on another field, I’m ready to go through these months in labor, 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. Thank you all for your support see you soon.”
Cristiano Ronaldo reaches out
Cristiano Ronaldo responded with a supportive message under the post. The Al Nassr forward said: “The hardest battles in football are often the ones nobody sees. I know that feeling, Kvara. But never forget what brought you this far, and don’t let a difficult moment make you doubt how far you can go. Keep that fire on. Your best is still to come.”
Further injury blows for PSG
The result is a heavy blow for Luis Enrique’s side, who remain top of the Champions League League Phase after beating Barcelona. Compounding the issue, two more key players face time on the sidelines. Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele limped off after only 19 minutes with a left thigh injury and is expected to miss a few weeks. Captain Marquinhos is also sidelined for a similar period with a right thigh problem.
PSG will travel to Ligue 1 leaders Lyon on Sunday for a top-of-the-table clash without three important figures.
Kvaratskhelia’s absence leaves PSG thinner in attack as they chase domestic and European titles. Fans and teammates have rallied around the winger as he begins the long road back to fitness.