Kvaratskhelia faces surgery after suffering anterior cruciate ligament tear

Paris Saint-Germain forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia says he is ready to endure “work, pain and tears” as he begins a long recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The Georgia international was injured during Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League match against Barcelona and is set to undergo surgery in the coming days.

Kvaratskhelia addressed supporters in an emotional message on Instagram, describing the shock of an injury that is expected to keep him out for an extended period.

He said he had always prepared for matches while praying that he would leave the pitch safely, before admitting he had not been ready for what happened.

“Not much time has passed, but one question is still going around in my head: why me specifically?” Kvaratskhelia wrote.

“I have never failed to give everything for this game, and perhaps I had prepared for this match in the best way of my life. I thought I was ready for everything, but I was not ready for this.”

Paris Saint-Germain confirmed that the 25-year-old had suffered a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the game against Barcelona.

The injury is a major setback for the French club, who have lost one of their leading attacking players with domestic and European competitions continuing. Kvaratskhelia now faces a lengthy period of treatment and rehabilitation before he can return to action.

The forward said he was beginning to accept the injury as part of God’s plan and was prepared to face the difficult months ahead.

“I understand that God chose me for this, and if by doing this I protected other players who were on the pitch, then I am ready to spend these months working, in pain and in tears,” he added.

Despite the seriousness of the setback, Kvaratskhelia reassured supporters that he would remain focused throughout his absence and was determined to return in better condition.

“I know that I have to come back stronger than before for my fans, who always stand by me,” he said.

“I will not let you down, I promise you that, and I will not spare any effort, even for a moment.”

Kvaratskhelia ended his message by thanking those who had contacted him or offered their support since the injury.

“Thank you everyone for your support. See you soon.”