Why Ez Abde could be PSG’s answer to injured Kvaratskhelia

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s long-term absence after suffering a torn cruciate ligament has left Paris Saint-Germain needing a reliable option on the left wing. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, widely known as Ez Abde, has emerged as one of the most logical candidates to fill the role.

The 24-year-old Morocco international is enjoying an excellent run of form with Real Betis and shares several characteristics with the Georgia international. Here are five reasons why he could be a natural replacement for Kvaratskhelia.

A similar style of play

Like Kvaratskhelia, Abde is primarily a left winger who thrives in one-on-one situations. He looks to attack space, accelerate beyond defenders and create openings through his technical ability.

His direct running and willingness to take on his marker provide similarities with the approach of PSG’s number seven. Abde’s ability to unsettle defences from wide areas would offer Luis Enrique a comparable attacking profile.

In excellent form

While Kvaratskhelia is unavailable, Abde has continued to produce influential performances for Real Betis in both La Liga and the Champions League.

He is playing with confidence and already has a strong competitive rhythm. His current record stands at four goals in eight matches in all competitions, while he has also made an important contribution to his team’s attacking play.

The right age and potential

At 24, Abde still has considerable room for development. His age could also allow him to adapt quickly to Luis Enrique’s tactical demands while becoming a long-term member of the PSG squad.

That would make him more than a short-term stand-in for Kvaratskhelia, with the potential to establish himself over a longer period.

Tactical flexibility

Abde’s versatility would give PSG additional options in attack. Although he is most familiar with the left flank, he can also play on the right or operate in a more central position.

That adaptability could prove valuable for a team competing in several competitions and managing a demanding schedule. It would allow Luis Enrique to alter his attacking set-up without necessarily making a substitution.

A potentially manageable cost

Abde’s release clause is understood to be around €60m, while his market value is estimated at €40m. With PSG having already shown interest in the player, his recruitment could be financially more realistic than some other options available in the market.

The Morocco international is under contract with Real Betis until 30 June 2029. Galatasaray were also monitoring him during the summer transfer window, according to exclusive sources cited by Africafoot.

Abde has previously moved to dismiss speculation about his future, saying: “I am happy at Betis!”