Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have confirmed that Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has successfully undergone surgery on his right knee after suffering a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during the club’s UEFA Champions League victory over Barcelona. Editorial Ethics & Independence
The French champions announced on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, that the 25-year-old had undergone the operation at Aspetar Hospital in Doha, Qatar. The club added that the forward would now begin his rehabilitation as he works towards recovering from the injury.
The development offers some reassurance to PSG supporters following the setback that forced one of the team’s important attacking players out of action.
However, the successful operation does not mean Kvaratskhelia is ready to return to competitive football, with his recovery expected to involve a lengthy rehabilitation process.
PSG have not provided an official timetable for his return, leaving uncertainty over when the Georgian international could resume training and become available for selection.
Injury Sustained Against Barcelona
Kvaratskhelia suffered the injury during PSG’s 4-2 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League on October 20. The winger injured his right knee during a challenge involving Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart and was unable to continue.
He was substituted in the 59th minute after receiving treatment on the pitch, with medical staff assisting him as he left the field.
Subsequent medical assessments confirmed a torn anterior cruciate ligament, prompting PSG to announce that he would require surgery. The club’s initial medical update stated that the operation would take place in the following days.
BBC Sport reported on October 21 that the Georgian international would undergo surgery after rupturing his ACL. The report also noted that PSG had not established a return date for the player.
The successful completion of the procedure now allows Kvaratskhelia to move into the next stage of his recovery, although the focus will remain on rehabilitation and restoring the stability and strength of his injured knee.
A Significant Setback for PSG
Kvaratskhelia’s injury represents a considerable setback for PSG as they continue their domestic and European campaigns.
His pace, dribbling ability, creativity and capacity to take on defenders have made him an important attacking option for head coach Luis Enrique.
The Georgian joined PSG from Napoli in January 2025 and has contributed to the French club’s recent success, including their Champions League triumphs.
His ability to operate from the left flank provides the team with an attacking threat capable of creating opportunities and scoring goals.
His absence will require PSG to consider alternative options in their forward line. Corrections Policy
The club possesses other talented attacking players, but replacing Kvaratskhelia’s particular qualities may require tactical adjustments and greater contributions from his teammates.
The length of his absence will depend on his recovery and medical progress.
Although ACL injuries commonly require at least six months of recovery, individual cases vary, and no specific return date should be treated as confirmed until PSG provides further information.
Kvaratskhelia Faces Rehabilitation Challenge
Following surgery, the next stage will focus on rehabilitation under the supervision of medical professionals.
This process generally involves carefully managed exercises to restore movement, rebuild muscle strength, improve balance and gradually prepare the injured knee for the demands of professional football. Editorial Standards
A return to training and competitive matches normally requires several stages of assessment. Medical teams must establish that a player can safely perform football-specific movements, including acceleration, sudden changes of direction and physical challenges.
For Kvaratskhelia, patience will be essential as he works through the recovery programme. Returning too early could expose a player to further injury, making medical clearance and gradual progression important considerations.
The winger previously expressed his disappointment after sustaining the injury, indicating his determination to return stronger. His message reflected the emotional difficulty of facing a lengthy spell away from the game at a time when he had been contributing to PSG’s ambitions.
Other Injury Concerns for PSG
Kvaratskhelia was not the only PSG player to suffer an injury during the victory over Barcelona. The club also reported thigh injuries to Ousmane Dembélé and captain Marquinhos, both of whom were expected to remain under treatment for several weeks.
The injuries have created additional selection concerns for Luis Enrique, particularly as PSG seek to maintain their competitiveness across multiple competitions.
While the successful operation is an important step forward for Kvaratskhelia, the club’s immediate priority will be ensuring that his rehabilitation progresses safely and effectively.
For now, PSG supporters will be hoping the Georgian international makes steady progress and eventually returns to the pitch in full fitness. Until the club issues further medical updates, however, the timing of his comeback remains uncertain.