Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) coach Luis Enrique expressed confidence in winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s recovery following the player's anterior cruciate ligament injury, which will sideline him for the remainder of the season. The 25-year-old sustained the injury during PSG’s 4-2 victory over Barcelona, marking a significant setback for the club.
Kvaratskhelia, a key figure for PSG, has played an instrumental role in the team’s recent successes, including consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. His absence is expected to be felt deeply by the Parisians as they continue their domestic and continental campaigns.
Enrique acknowledged the seriousness of the injury soon after the match but remained optimistic about Kvaratskhelia’s long-term prospects. “Our thoughts are with the player and what he’s going to go through, it’s difficult,” Enrique said. “But ultimately, you have to stay positive and remember that if you want to play at the highest level for 10 to 15 years, you’re going to suffer injuries, that’s the life of a professional footballer.”
The coach praised Kvaratskhelia’s resilience and assured that the club would support him throughout his recovery. “Kvara is a fighter, and there will be positives once he’s overcome this injury,” Enrique added. “He has been, is and will continue to be a very important player for us. We’ll stand by him and be attentive to his needs. He’ll come back even stronger, I have no doubt about that.”
Addressing concerns about squad depth amid the injury, Enrique stated that the team does not plan to bring in new signings solely because of Kvaratskhelia’s absence. “No injury means that we absolutely must sign a new player,” he said. “Since the start of the season, I’ve always said that we could cope with any injuries.”
PSG is preparing to face Lyon at Parc des Princes on Monday in pursuit of a fifth consecutive league win. The two sides last met in April, with Lyon securing a 2-1 victory on the road. Enrique indicated that the previous result adds motivation ahead of the upcoming match.
“It’s a motivation to take on Paulo Fonseca’s Olympique Lyonnais,” he remarked. “We remember what they did last season, when they won at the Parc des Princes playing very well. It’s up to us to show that we’re ready for every game and to demonstrate our form.”
Enrique also highlighted PSG’s recent improvements in the league standings, noting the team’s opportunity to challenge for the top spot. “Three or four weeks ago, we were still a long way behind the top team in the table, and now, we have the chance to go top. It’s important for us to be as high up the table as possible,” he said.
