Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: PSG Move Signals Evolution as Complete Player

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    <p>Scored the winning goal against the Sounders</p>

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            <img alt="Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Move to PSG" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/khvicha-kvaratskhelia-fifa-club-world-cup-1750722528-170841.jpg" title="Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Move to PSG">
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        SEATTLE -- With one goal and two assists, Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is having a standout FIFA Club World Cup. On Monday, his opening goal against the Seattle Sounders (13’) ensured Paris Saint-Germain's progress to the round of 16. The 24-year-old winger skillfully deflected a long-range shot beyond Sounders’ goalkeeper Stefan Frei, setting the stage for a decisive 2-0 victory before 50,268 fans at Lumen Field. Achraf Hakimi added another goal (66’), guaranteeing PSG's advancement regardless of the outcome in the concurrent match between Atlético Madrid and Botafogo (1-0).
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        Kvaratskhelia dismissed any doubts about the result. “We did not think about it,” he told Transfermarkt the day before the match when asked if PSG might be heading back to Paris after the group stage. PSG head coach Luis Enrique highlighted the need for a professional performance to secure the win. “In a short competition, it’s normal to play for everything in the third group match,” he said. “Moving forward, we have to approach every match with the same mindset. We can get eliminated in any game from here on out.”
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        Kvaratskhelia concurred with his coach. “We’ve seen their moments in previous games, and we know they can play well,” he remarked about the Sounders. “We were aware it would be a tough match, but we needed to focus on our game.” He emphasized the prestige and responsibility that comes with being part of PSG. “Every team in this tournament has a chance to win, but we are the reigning Champions League winners, so we must demonstrate our best play.” Reflecting on the competition level in the FIFA Club World Cup, he noted, “Every team is capable of winning. There may be favorites, but upsets happen, and that’s part of the game.”
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    <h2>PSG's Kvaratskhelia: “We are the team that won the Champions League”</h2>

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        The last six months have been a whirlwind for Kvaratskhelia. Signed for €70 million in January from Napoli, he has already played 28 matches for PSG, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists. “I feel good,” he stated regarding his workload. “I’m just happy to contribute to the team and give my all.” Discussing his transition from Napoli to PSG, he said, “It happened so quickly. I’m still trying to comprehend it because it moved fast. I’m thrilled to be at such an amazing club with incredible players.” Has he fully grasped his achievements in the past six months? “Not quite yet.” Kvaratskhelia has filled a crucial role in PSG's tactical setup, playing a significant part in their Champions League run, boosting his market value from €80 million to €90 million—his career high.
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        Since joining PSG, Kvaratskhelia has evolved into a more rounded player. Coach Luis Enrique emphasizes the importance of his attacking players being responsible defensively as well. “We could make another documentary about that,” he mentioned, referring to a video with Kylian Mbappé in which he attempts to instill a more aggressive pressing style in the forward. “Ultimately, I want my players to develop individually. If they succeed, we will grow as a team. If not, that’s a failure on my part as a coach. It’s essential for players to step out of their comfort zones to improve.”
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        While Mbappé never fully embraced this approach and has since departed for Real Madrid, Kvaratskhelia has embraced Enrique’s style of play. “I need to be capable on both sides of the pitch,” he explained regarding his defensive contribution. “When I arrived, it was made clear that I am not just an attacker; it’s crucial for everyone to defend well.” This philosophy has benefitted both PSG and Kvaratskhelia. In June, the Georgian lifted the Champions League trophy, and with today’s goal, he’s ensured that PSG’s journey in the Club World Cup continues.
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