Former Rubin and Georgia defender Lasha Salukvadze believes Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia should win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, despite suffering a cruciate ligament injury.
Kvaratskhelia’s injury was also discussed by Salukvadze in an exclusive interview with the online publication Euro-Futbol.Ru.
“Cruciate ligament damage is a serious test for any footballer,” Salukvadze said. “But he is a strong person. I am sure he will recover and return even stronger.
“I do not think this injury will affect Khvicha mentally. He is a strong person.”
Kvaratskhelia joined Paris Saint-Germain’s list of injury concerns after tearing his cruciate ligaments. Salukvadze was nevertheless confident the setback would not undermine his compatriot’s prospects in the Ballon d’Or race.
Asked whether he expected Kvaratskhelia to finish among the top three nominees, Salukvadze replied: “Absolutely. Kvaratskhelia must be in the top three nominees for the Ballon d’Or.
“In fact, no footballer had a season like Khvicha did last season. He really should win the Ballon d’Or.”
The 2026 Ballon d’Or award ceremony will take place in London on 26 October.
