Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia cameo against Chelsea reignites Ligue one versus Europe debate | OneFootball

Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia came off the bench to score twice in PSG’s 5-2 win over Chelsea on Wednesday, reopening the debate about his contrasting Ligue one and European form.

According to L'Équipe, a run of modest league displays drew internal criticism in recent weeks, and the 25-year-old was named among the substitutes for the Champions League last-16 first leg.

He marked his brace with the ice in my veins celebration borrowed from Washington Wizards guard D'Angelo Russell, underlining a cool head when the pressure peaks.

The former Napoli forward’s decisive cameo may have altered the course of PSG’s season, sharpening the sense there are two Kvaras, one for continental nights and another who can toil domestically.

Adel Chedli, assistant to Georgia coach Willy Sagnol, felt Kvaratskhelia’s expression on entry signalled intent, and that missing the XI likely stung his pride.

He added that the first goal mirrored a pattern the player drills with Georgia and PSG, arguing few can execute it at that speed and precision.

Chedli rejects claims his motivation varies, saying Ligue one is tactical and physical with low blocks, so opponents often double or even triple up on him. He noted the Georgian’s standout Euro 2024 display came in the 2-0 win over Portugal, adding that the biggest players show in the biggest games.

Those around the player also maintain the contrast is stylistic rather than mental, with Champions League matches more open and transition-heavy, which suits him better than France’s deep defences. In recent weeks he has hired a communications agency to refine his messaging, and he is urged to look up more to shed a soloist image without changing his game.

Source: L'Équipe