Beijing time (CEST) September 14 — In an interview with France Football, Kvaratskhelia spoke about his growth and transformation since joining PSG, stating that he feels respected at the club and continues to develop under Luis Enrique's demanding coaching.

Since PSG signed you from Napoli in January 2025 (the transfer fee exceeded 70 million euros), Paris has won the Champions League twice. Is that a coincidence?

Kvaratskhelia: I don't think it's because of me. Every player at this club is crucial. Whether you're playing or on the bench, it's the same. I'm very proud and grateful to contribute my small part to the team's success in winning these beautiful trophies.

How smooth was your integration into the team?

Kvaratskhelia: From day one, my teammates made me feel like I'd known them for two or three years. So my adaptation was very smooth. I truly feel at home here.

Did you suspect at that time that this team would become such a dominant force?

Kvaratskhelia: Of course. When I saw these players and their level of play, even in training, I knew this team could achieve anything. I knew that as long as we stayed united and listened to this remarkable coach and coaching staff, we could win many titles.

What has Luis Enrique given you?

Kvaratskhelia: We have a very good relationship and mutual respect. He always pushes me to go beyond myself and gives me advice to help me improve. I can communicate with him easily. It's very easy to play for him. I'm very proud of him. I love his methods, and his entire staff is outstanding. You just have to follow their instructions and execute them well.

Last season, starting from the second leg of the Champions League playoff against Monaco, you delivered an exceptional performance. From that point through the final, you played a decisive role in every match, including winning a penalty against Arsenal. You were ultimately named tournament MVP (10 goals and 6 assists). Do you enjoy playing at this level of competition?

Of course, Kvaratskhelia: I feel very comfortable. But clearly, this also means the team performed very well because they helped me tremendously. Without teamwork, it's impossible to play well. Personally, I respect all opponents. But I don't focus too much on who's in the opposing starting lineup. For me, on the pitch, everyone is equal. It all depends on the player's motivation, what he can give to the team, and what he can do on the field. So I just want to perform as well as possible, do what I do best, and do what I truly love.

What's your favorite goal and assist in Paris?

Kvaratskhelia: For an assist, I'd choose the one I gave to "Ous" (Dembélé) against Bayern in Munich last season (May 6, 2026, second leg of the Champions League semifinal, 1-1). It was a crucial match, we were away, and it was at one of Europe's best stadiums — the Allianz Arena. We had to score first. The move was brilliant (Pacho started the attack from the back, I completed a flick, and then Fabián Ruiz provided the through ball). As for a goal, I'd pick the one against Aston Villa (April 9, 2025, first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal, 3-1). I feinted a shot in front of defender Axel Disasi, and then with my left foot, from a tight angle, I struck a powerful shot that fooled Damian Martínez. I have many goals I love, but this one is probably the most beautiful.

You're a player who loves creating threats with the ball at your feet. Some praise your body feints and shot feints. Beyond the technical aspects, how do you view the psychological factors and constant confrontation with one or even several defenders?

Kvaratskhelia: I love taking risks in football. When I have the ball, I'm the proudest person in the world. I truly enjoy the feeling of one-on-one and trying to help the team score. Of course, there are sometimes intense confrontations during matches, but these emotions never extend beyond the pitch.

You're not afraid to fail. Do you keep trying again and again?

Kvaratskhelia: It's about taking risks. I tell myself that maybe this time I'll fail, but I'll definitely try again. Because out of five attempts, I might succeed with one brilliant move that creates a chance to help the team score.

In Naples, it was almost impossible for you to walk down the street without being recognized. Is it easier now in Paris?

Kvaratskhelia: Yes, it's much easier here because there are many tourists, and some don't know much about football. In Naples, I felt like everyone lived for football. But of course, in Paris, I also meet people who really love me.

Do you know why PSG fans love you so much?

Kvaratskhelia: I don't know — you tell me.

It must be because of your dribbling, your runs with the ball, and also because you give everything in defense. For fans, this represents a complete player — both an artist and a fighter.

Kvaratskhelia: I wasn't like this at Napoli. After coming here, I realized how much effort the team puts in and how much they respect me. In return, I feel I have to perform as well as possible because they deserve it.

And under Luis Enrique, I realized I have to always be in top condition because every player has the potential to be a starter. If you make one mistake, you might end up on the bench. So I'll do my best to help the team defend or attack. I want to give everything for this club.

In 2024, we traveled to Georgia for France Football to follow your progress. Your parents and uncle told us how central football is to your life. Did the boy from Nakhidze, who slept with a football, ever think he'd become one of the best players in the world?

Kvaratskhelia: Never. I didn't even know if I could become a professional player. But one thing was certain: I love football.

This journey has been long. Georgia has helped me a lot. So I also want to make Georgian culture known to more people. I love being part of this small nation (3.8 million people) that represents such spirit and acts like one big family. I'm proud to be Georgian, and I always do my best to be a great ambassador for my country.


Diterjemahkan oleh AI.

Situs web AF kini hadir! Lihat berita lengkap, komentar, detail pertandingan, dan statistik di komputer Anda. Kunjungi: www.allfootballapp.com