A thrilling Champions League night at the Parc des Princes ended in a significant blow for Paris St-Germain, as winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia sustained a severe knee injury during his side's 4-2 victory over Barcelona, according to BBC Sport. Making his first start of the season in the competition, the 25-year-old was forced off in the 59th minute following a challenge with Xavi Espart, leaving the pitch unable to put weight on his right leg.
According to BBC Sport, Kvaratskhelia will now undergo surgery after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The outlet reported that the Georgia international had previously helped PSG secure back-to-back Champions League titles following his January 2025 transfer from Napoli, and had featured 11 times for the club this season.
In addition to Kvaratskhelia's injury, BBC Sport confirmed that PSG will also be missing Ousmane Dembele and Marquinhos for a "few weeks." Dembele reportedly limped off the pitch with a left thigh injury, while Marquinhos sustained an injury to his right thigh.
Background
According to BBC Sport, the dramatic encounter between PSG and Barcelona saw both sides level at 2-2 heading into the final 10 minutes at the Parc des Princes. The hosts managed to score two late goals to secure the victory, maintaining their winning start to their Champions League defence. With three wins from three matches, PSG currently sits at the top of the table.
Why it matters
For sports enthusiasts in Pakistan and across the globe who follow European club football closely, major injuries to star players alter the competitive landscape of the Champions League. While local sports fans watch these international tournaments purely for entertainment and athletic excellence, sudden roster changes for top-tier clubs like PSG highlight the unpredictable nature of professional sport, where physical resilience remains as crucial as tactical brilliance.