Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has released an emotional message after suffering a serious ACL injury during the club’s Champions League victory over Barcelona.
The Georgia international admitted that he has been struggling to understand why the injury happened, revealing that one question has continued to run through his mind: “Why me?”
Kvaratskhelia suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during PSG’s 4-2 victory over Barcelona on Tuesday. PSG subsequently confirmed that the 25-year-old will undergo surgery in the coming days.
The injury is expected to keep him out for an extended period, with reports indicating that his season is likely to be over.
Kvaratskhelia: “Why me?”
Taking to social media after receiving the diagnosis, Kvaratskhelia opened up about the emotional impact of the injury.
He explained that before every match, his simple prayer was to finish the game healthy.
“Before every match, I simply asked God to let me return home healthy. But it was in vain.”
The PSG star then revealed the question that has dominated his thoughts since the injury.
“Not much time has passed, but one question keeps going through my mind: WHY ME?”
Kvaratskhelia also admitted that the timing of the injury has been particularly difficult because he believed he had prepared for the Barcelona match better than ever.
“I never neglected a single effort. I had probably prepared for this match better than any other before. I thought I was ready for anything, BUT NOT THIS.”
His comments underline the shock of suffering a major injury despite doing everything he could to prepare physically for the Champions League encounter. His message was also accompanied by a strong expression of faith and acceptance.
“God has chosen me”
Despite his frustration, Kvaratskhelia said he was trying to find meaning in what had happened.
The Georgian forward suggested that if his injury somehow meant another player was spared a similar experience, he was prepared to accept the difficult road ahead.
“However, I understand that God has chosen me. And if what has happened to me has spared other footballers on the pitch from going through this, then I am ready to endure the pain, the hard work, the suffering and the tears.”
It is a striking response from a player facing one of the most difficult periods of his career.
An ACL injury generally requires surgery followed by an extensive rehabilitation programme, meaning Kvaratskhelia faces months of work before he can realistically consider a return to competitive football.
PSG have confirmed the need for surgery but have not announced a definitive recovery timetable.
He promises to return stronger
Kvaratskhelia ended his message with a promise to his loved ones and supporters.
Rather than focusing solely on the length of his absence, he said he was determined to use the recovery period to work toward a stronger return.
“I know I have to come back stronger for my loved ones, who are always by my side.”
He added:
“I will not let you down, I promise. I WILL NOT WASTE A SINGLE SECOND.”
The winger then thanked supporters for the messages of encouragement he has received since the injury.
“Thank you all for your support. See you very soon.”
His message has since generated widespread support from football fans and fellow players.
Injury came during PSG's win over Barcelona
Kvaratskhelia's injury occurred during a dramatic Champions League encounter at the Parc des Princes.
PSG defeated Barcelona 4-2, but the French champions paid a heavy physical price for the victory.
Kvaratskhelia was forced off during the second half after suffering the knee injury. He required assistance as he made his way from the pitch, immediately raising concerns about the severity of the problem.
Medical examinations subsequently confirmed the ACL tear.
PSG's official diagnosis means the Georgian will now begin preparations for surgery and the lengthy rehabilitation process that will follow.
Another major blow for PSG
Kvaratskhelia's injury is particularly significant for PSG because he has become an important attacking player for the French champions.
His absence leaves Luis Enrique without one of his key attacking options for a substantial portion of the campaign.
The Georgian is not the only PSG player to have suffered an injury from the Barcelona match.
Ousmane Dembélé suffered a left-thigh injury, while captain Marquinhos sustained an injury to his right thigh. PSG said both players would remain in treatment for the coming weeks.
That means PSG could be forced to manage a significant injury list while attempting to compete on multiple fronts.
A difficult road ahead
For Kvaratskhelia, however, the immediate priority is no longer PSG's upcoming fixtures.
His focus will be on surgery, rehabilitation and eventually returning to full fitness.
ACL rehabilitation can be physically and mentally demanding, with players required to gradually rebuild strength, stability and confidence before returning to competitive action.
There will also be no reason for PSG or the player to rush the process. The priority will be ensuring that Kvaratskhelia returns when he is medically ready rather than trying to accelerate his comeback.
His emotional statement suggests that he already understands the challenge ahead.
Rather than hiding his frustration, Kvaratskhelia openly acknowledged the pain of the setback while making it clear that he intends to give everything during his recovery.
Kvaratskhelia's message to supporters
The strongest theme throughout Kvaratskhelia's statement was gratitude.
Even while dealing with the disappointment of a potentially season-ending injury, he acknowledged the support surrounding him and promised to make the most of every moment of his rehabilitation.
His words have provided an early indication of the mentality he intends to take into the recovery process.
For PSG supporters, the hope will be that the Georgian can complete his rehabilitation successfully and eventually return to the pitch at the level that made him one of the club's most important attacking players.
For now, Kvaratskhelia faces a long period away from competitive football.
But his message was clear: he intends to come back stronger.
