Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to undergo surgery after tearing ACL in PSG win over Barcelona

Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed that Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and will undergo surgery, leaving the European champions without one of their most decisive attackers.

The 25-year-old, who was named the Champions League's best player last season and is a nominee for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, was injured in Tuesday's 4-2 home win over Barcelona.

The Georgia international landed awkwardly while challenging Barcelona full-back Xavi Espart just before the hour mark. He was helped off in the 59th minute and replaced by Maghenes Akliouche, with Espart and PSG teammate Desire Doue both trying to console him as he left the pitch.

PSG said on Wednesday the operation will take place "in the coming days" but gave no recovery timeline, though it's likely the winger's season is over.

"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 club statement said.

Kvaratskhelia joined PSG from Napoli in January 2025 and has scored 29 goals and provided 20 assists in 91 games for the club, playing an integral role in their back-to-back Champions League triumphs.

Summer signing Mika Godts looks the likeliest candidate to replace Kvaratskhelia on the left wing, while Ferran Torresm, Ousmane Dembele and Akliouche offer alternative options.

Dembele and Marquinhos also sidelined

Kvaratskhelia was not the only casualty against Barcelona. Reigning Ballon d'Or holder Dembele went off with a left thigh injury in the 20th minute and was replaced by Torres, while captain Marquinhos hurt his right thigh soon after Kvaratskhelia's exit and made way for Ilya Zabarnyi.

According to the club's statement, both players "will remain under treatment for the next few weeks".

PSG, who are second in Ligue 1, return to action against Lyon on Sunday.