PSG weigh positional reshuffle and January signing after Kvaratskhelia injury

Paris Saint-Germain are considering three ways to cover the long-term absence of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia after the Georgia winger was diagnosed with a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

The injury is expected to keep Kvaratskhelia out for several months and leaves manager Luis Enrique with a difficult decision over how best to replace him. The announcement came a day after PSG’s 4-2 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League.

The French champions could first turn to players already able to operate in Kvaratskhelia’s usual position. Belgian winger Mika Godts is the most natural alternative, although he is still adapting to the team. He has, however, offered some encouraging signs.

Maghnes Akliouche is another possibility. His technical ability and versatility would allow him to play on either wing or in midfield, while Desire Doue can also fill several attacking positions.

Nuno Mendes option remains uncertain

A second route would involve moving an established player into a more advanced role. According to Foot Mercato, citing L’Equipe and Le Parisien, PSG are examining the possibility of using Portugal international Nuno Mendes further forward on the left, taking advantage of his attacking qualities.

That option remains only a possibility, partly because Mendes is still expected to be out for several more weeks with injury. Moving him into the wing position would also require changes to the defensive structure.

Lucas Hernandez and Lucas Beraldo are among the players who could help cover at the back if Mendes is pushed forward. Warren Zaire-Emery is another alternative, although he is more accustomed to playing at right-back than on the left.

Young players and transfer plans

PSG have also told Le Parisien that Senny Mayulu and Quentin Ndjantou are highly regarded by the club. Both players are expected to feature in the rotation that Luis Enrique will use during the coming period.

The club have not ruled out signing a left winger during the winter transfer window as they seek to cope with Kvaratskhelia’s extended absence.

That would provide a third option for Enrique, alongside relying on existing replacements or changing the position of one of his current players. The scale of the Georgian winger’s injury means PSG must now find a solution capable of covering his role over the long term.