Michel Platini puts Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia forward for Ballon d’Or

Michel Platini has backed Paris Saint-Germain forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, delivering a surprise recommendation amid debate over whether Kylian Mbappe or another leading contender should claim the award.

The former France international and football legend selected the Georgia player as his preferred candidate, pointing to Kvaratskhelia’s success with Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League.

“For the Ballon d’Or, I would place a small bet on the Paris Saint-Germain player, Kvaratskhelia,” Platini said, according to Tribuna.

He later explained the reasoning behind his choice, adding: “He won the UEFA Champions League title with Paris Saint-Germain.”

Platini continued: “The UEFA Champions League means playing many matches. There are four or five other players who also deserve the award.”

The comments come after Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho sparked discussion about this year’s Ballon d’Or. Mourinho said the prize should not go to a Paris Saint-Germain player or to a member of the Spain national team.

The Real Madrid manager also referred to a player who had achieved an exceptional individual feat during the summer and suggested that achievement made him worthy of the award. His remarks were understood to be a reference to Kylian Mbappe, who became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history.

Platini’s backing of Kvaratskhelia therefore adds another perspective to a contest expected to feature several prominent candidates. Rather than selecting Mbappe, whose individual World Cup record was highlighted by Mourinho, Platini focused on the Georgian winger’s contribution to Paris Saint-Germain’s European success.

Kvaratskhelia joined Paris Saint-Germain’s list of candidates after helping the club win the UEFA Champions League. Platini’s comments specifically linked that achievement to his Ballon d’Or case, while also acknowledging that the award could reasonably go to several other players.

The identity of the winner will be confirmed in October. Ousmane Dembele is expected to face strong competition as he attempts to retain the prize he currently holds.

The Ballon d’Or debate is likely to continue until the announcement, with Kvaratskhelia, Mbappe and other leading names discussed as possible winners. Platini’s choice gives the Paris Saint-Germain forward the support of one of France’s most celebrated football figures, despite Mourinho’s argument against selecting a player from the club or Spain’s national team.

The subject and related football news can also be discussed in greater depth on the Kooora forums.