Not Lionel Messi: PSG star Kvaratskhelia reveals the two idols who inspired his soccer career

PSG forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia recently named the two soccer legends who inspired his career, and surprisingly, Lionel Messi isn’t one of them.

In the world of soccer, many players from the new generation cite Lionel Messi as their primary influence. However, Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia took a different path, revealing two icons who closely align with his style of play and professional philosophy.

In a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, the Georgian star revealed the two players who inspired him and shaped both his style of play and approach to his professional career. Those players are Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.

“Cristiano was my idol. I would watch him everywhere,” Kvaratskhelia told Ferdinand. “I think the main thing for me was the type of professional he has always been. Everyone knows he’s one of the greatest players in soccer history, but the way he lives his life—that’s what I took from him and learned from”.

When discussing Ronaldinho, Kvaratskhelia focused on the Brazilian’s mesmerizing style of play. “As a kid, I was addicted to watching Ronaldinho’s videos. He was incredible, and I loved watching him,” he admitted. “Sometimes, I even try to replicate the things he did. Every now and then, I pull it off”.

Kvaratskhelia’s admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo

Kvaratskhelia has never been shy about his deep respect for the former Real Madrid star. Following Georgia’s 2-0 victory over Portugal in the UEFA Euro 2024 group stage, the PSG forward shared a memorable moment he had with Ronaldo.

“Before the match, Cristiano came over and wished me luck; I never imagined he’d come to talk to me,” Kvaratskhelia revealed during the post-match press conference.

“He’s a great player and an even greater person,” he continued. “That’s why he’s such a big personality on and off the field. I have so much respect for him—he’s one of the best players in the world”.

The exchange left a lasting impression on Kvaratskhelia. “When someone like him comes to talk to you before a game, it means something. It helped us believe we could achieve something big today. We’re incredibly proud to have beaten such a strong team,” he added.

From: bolavip.com