Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s recent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain marks a significant move in the January transfer window. The Georgian winger, known for his direct style of play, joins PSG after a period of success and some challenges at Napoli. The recent situation at Napoli and not really coming to terms with coach Antonio Conte finally made this move possible. But was it a wise decision for Khvicha and can he help improve PSG and perhaps push them further towards lifting the Champions League trophy? Here are our thoughts on the matter.
PSG Integration and Tactical Adjustments
His debut for PSG against Reims on January 25 resulted in a 1-1 draw. Despite the draw, Kvaratskhelia contributed an assist, showcasing his ability to create opportunities. PSG coach Luis Enrique noted that it was a difficult first match for him, requiring time to find his rhythm.
Integrating Kvaratskhelia into the PSG lineup might require some tactical adjustments. While he is comfortable as a left winger, PSG’s existing squad may necessitate shifts in player positioning or formation. His tendency to cut inside could create opportunities for overlapping full-backs. PSG may need to adjust their approach to maximize Kvaratskhelia’s strengths.
Also, it is going to be interesting to see how he pairs up with Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembélé, who have been instrumental for the Paris side this season.
Playing Style and Strengths
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is a versatile and dynamic player, comfortable operating across the front line, though he is primarily utilised as a left winger. He blends physicality with technical skill, often cutting inside from the left to leverage his stronger right foot for shots on goal.
His playing style is characterised by a number of key attributes, including a high dribbling success rate of approximately 58%, enabling him to effectively penetrate opposing defences. Kvaratskhelia’s pace and acceleration are also key components of his game, allowing him to exploit gaps, particularly during counter-attacking scenarios.
Beyond his direct attacking play, Kvaratskhelia is a creative force. He not only has the ability to score goals but also creates opportunities for teammates through his vision, crossing ability, and accuracy from set pieces.
He is an attack-minded player who is not afraid to take on defenders directly. His skill in drawing fouls, winning approximately 2.6 per 90 minutes, often in dangerous areas, adds another dimension to his game. Furthermore, his high-pressing ability allows him to recover possession in attacking zones, a valuable trait for any team seeking to dominate possession and maintain offensive pressure.
Napoli Statistics and Departure
In the current 2024/2025 Serie A season, Kvaratskhelia has played 17 matches, scoring only 5 goals and providing 3 assists. His goals per 90 minutes stand at 0.38, with a total goal involvement of 0.61 per 90 minutes. He is in the 91st percentile for goals scored and the 94th percentile for goal involvement among Serie A players.
This season’s performance is a massive downturn compared to his previous season at Napoli, where he scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists in 34 games.
Kvaratskhelia’s departure from Napoli was not without its complications. Despite a contract until 2027, he requested a transfer in December. According to reports, a significant salary offer from PSG influenced this decision. Napoli coach Antonio Conte expressed his disappointment, stating that the player wished to leave immediately. Mind you, this is not the only controversial transfer that Napoli have made recently.
The transfer concludes his time at Napoli, where he won the Serie A title and was named player of the season in 2022-23.
His Impact at PSG
Kvaratskhelia’s transfer could positively affect PSG’s domestic and international campaigns. His dribbling ability and speed could provide a new dimension to PSG’s attack.
His creative abilities should enhance the team’s goal-scoring opportunities. Kvaratskhelia’s ability to recover the ball in the attacking half will help with counter-pressing. However, any issues with adaptation or tactical adjustments will have to be monitored.
