Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Georgian star proud of the

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Georgian star proud of the

According to Bbc.

Background

Kvaratskhelia, who was named Champions League Player of the Year in the 2025-26 season, has established himself as a key player for Paris St-Germain. His ability to influence games and his role as an ambassador for Georgia in football make him a central figure in the current season and beyond.

Why this is important

Paris St-Germain's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has not only gained personal recognition with his nomination for the Ballon d'Or, but has also shone the light on Georgia in global football. His performances in the Champions League and the visibility that came with them could further promote football in Georgia and inspire young talents to pursue their dreams. The comparison with George Best underlines the importance of Kvaratskhelia as a role model for future generations.

Key findings

• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Georgian star proud of the.
• Paris St-Germain's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia speaks proudly of his Ballon d'Or nomination and draws comparisons to George Best, highlighting the importance of representing Georgia in football.
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Georgia star proud of comparison to Northern Ireland's George Best - BBC Sport.

Paris St-Germain's Georgian football star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has said he already feels like someone who has achieved "something special" after being nominated for the Ballon d'Or. The 25-year-old is on the 30-man shortlist from which the best player in the world will be chosen. The award will be presented on October 26th. Kvaratskhelia, who was voted Champions League Player of the Year in the 2025-26 season, said: "For me, it's already a pleasure to be among these players who are in the running for the Ballon d'Or. I feel like I did something special last year, I'm really happy and let's see what happens." He added: "I am happy that I represent Georgia, a small country. Young children know that even if they come from a small country, they can achieve such things." Georgia faces Northern Ireland in the Nations League on Friday, and Northern Ireland is the smallest country in the world by population to have ever produced a Ballon d'Or winner, George Best, who won the prize in 1968. Kvaratskhelia has been frequently compared to Best in recent years. “As for George Best, of course I know him,” Kvaratskhelia said of the comparisons. "Some people have told me that when I played I behaved partly like him. I'm not sure because he was one of the best players in football history and it's a pleasure and I'm proud of that comparison." Northern Ireland coach Michael O'Neill, who was no more than 20 when Best died, can understand what a global superstar means to a small football country. "George Best is an iconic figure in world football and we are privileged in many ways that he comes from Northern Ireland. He has, in a way, put our country on the map," said O'Neill. "I think in Georgia they have a similar situation now with Kvaratskhelia. I think he is a world-class player. For me he was the best player throughout the Champions League last season. We obviously have to pay special attention to him. It's the same when you play against a world-class player from another country, you have to be aware that he can decide a game in a moment." Despite being nominated for such a prestigious award, Kvaratskhelia's national team coach Willy Sagnol praised the player's focus on the collective. "You mentioned the Ballon d'Or. Maybe times have changed, but I think sometimes the past was better, the players played and waited until the end to see who got the Ballon d'Or and then you were happy if you won or disappointed if you didn't win," said Sagnol. "Too many players have said in the last few weeks: 'I'm the best, I'm the best'. Khvicha has never said that and that's why I'm very proud that I'm his coach. He always thinks about the team and never about himself and I'm sure he'll show that on Friday too."

What happens next

Georgia will face Northern Ireland in the Nations League on Friday, providing an opportunity for Kvaratskhelia to showcase his form and lead his side to victory. A successful performance could not only improve Georgia's season prospects, but also bring Kvaratskhelia further into the focus of the international football community. With a view to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this could be crucial for the development of Georgian football.

Frequently asked questions

When will the 2023 Ballon d'Or be awarded?

The Ballon d'Or will be awarded on October 26, 2023.

Who will Georgia play against in the Nations League?

Georgia plays against Northern Ireland in the Nations League on Friday.

Who is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia?

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is a Georgian football star who plays for Paris St-Germain.

What did Khvicha Kvaratskhelia say about George Best?

Kvaratskhelia said he is proud of being compared to George Best and feels like someone who has achieved something special.

What title did Kvaratskhelia win in the 2025-26 season?

Kvaratskhelia was named Champions League Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season.

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