A pleasure to be among Ballon d’Or contenders – Kvaratskhelia

n n

Paris Saint-Germain forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia says it is a “pleasure” to be among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or.

n

The Georgia international is on the 30-player shortlist for the prestigious individual award after an impressive 2025-26 season, in which he was named Champions League Player of the Season.

n

As reported by BBC Sport on Thursday, the Georgian said, “To be a Ballon d’Or contender, it’s already a pleasure to be among these players in the race,” Kvaratskhelia said.

n

“I feel already that I did something special in the last year, I’m really happy and let’s see what’s gonna happen.”

n

The 25-year-old said he was particularly proud to represent Georgia on football’s biggest individual stage.

n

“I’m happy that I represent Georgia, a small country. Little kids, they know that even if they are from a small country, they can achieve these things,” he said.

n

Kvaratskhelia was also asked about comparisons with Northern Ireland great George Best, who won the Ballon d’Or in 1968.

n

“Some people a long time ago told me even when I played it seems like him,” he said.

n

“I’m not sure because he was one of the best in football history and it the comparison is a pleasure and I’m proud.”

n n