Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has become one of Europe’s most exciting football talents. The Georgian winger has dazzled fans with Paris St-Germain this season, yet remains grounded off the pitch.
At 25, Kvaratskhelia leads PSG in the Champions League with seven goal contributions in nine matches, scoring four goals and assisting three. His next challenge is Chelsea, a club that previously pursued the player nicknamed “Kvaradona,” for the last-16 first leg in Paris.
Humble Beginnings in Tbilisi
Kvaratskhelia grew up in a modest Soviet-era apartment block in Tbilisi. His parents, Badri and Maka, welcomed me into their home filled with football mementos, from trophies to his first Dinamo Tbilisi shirt. Maka says, “His path to the top started here.”
Even today, Kvaratskhelia returns to his small bedroom. It holds a computer, keyboard, headphones, and a gaming chair – his personal space to relax and focus.
Early Football Passion
Born on 12 February 2001, football was always central to Kvaratskhelia’s life. He walked and slept with the ball, embracing the sport from a young age. He debuted professionally at 16 with Dinamo Tbilisi and later moved to Rustavi and Lokomotiv Moscow, where his first significant salary helped fund life-saving heart surgery for his father.
At 18, he won the Russian Cup with Lokomotiv Moscow. A stint at Rubin Kazan followed, earning him two Russian League best young player awards. He returned briefly to Georgia with Dinamo Batumi after FIFA allowed foreign players to suspend Russian contracts during the Ukraine invasion.
Rise in Serie A and PSG
Napoli signed Kvaratskhelia on 1 July 2022 for about £9.5m. His skills helped Napoli secure their first Serie A title in 33 years. Fans lovingly called him “Kvaradona.”
In January 2025, he became the first Georgian to join PSG for £59m plus add-ons. He won a treble with PSG, including their first Champions League title, scoring in the final.
Playing Style and Training
Kvaratskhelia is known for his direct dribbling, quick changes of direction, and strong finishing. His training includes targeted strength work, plyometrics, and reaction drills. He studies football icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, blending their techniques with his style.
He is also committed defensively, crediting former Napoli coach Antonio Conte for his improvements. His competitive mentality and work ethic reflect his upbringing rooted in responsibility and respect.
“I love football so much. Winning with the team is everything. Football is my life, and I enjoy every moment on the pitch,” Kvaratskhelia says.
Kvaratskhelia’s journey from Tbilisi’s streets to PSG stardom is a story of talent, dedication, and perseverance.
