Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery has endorsed Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as a potential winner of the 2026 Ballon d'Or, following his side's 2-1 defeat to PSG in the UEFA Super Cup final on August 13, 2026.
Kvaratskhelia's Decisive Performance in the Super Cup
Kvaratskhelia opened the scoring for PSG with a brilliant first-half goal, giving the Champions League winners an early advantage. Aston Villa, the Europa League holders, equalized just before the break through 17-year-old Brian Madjo, but Desire Doue netted the winner in the second half to secure PSG's second consecutive Super Cup title.
The loss extended Emery's personal losing streak in the Super Cup to four finals, having previously fallen short with Sevilla and Villarreal, according to BR Football.
Emery's Endorsement at the Post-Match Press Conference
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Emery praised Kvaratskhelia's impact, noting his consistency since his Napoli days. "Of course, his impact was fantastic two years ago in Napoli and now at PSG," Emery said. "Today, he scored a fantastic goal. He scored a goal like he usually scores. We tried to avoid it, but his quality of shooting is really fantastic."
Emery went further, suggesting the Georgian winger deserves football's most prestigious individual honor. "For me, it's not my decision, but I think he can win this trophy (Ballon d'Or)," he added.
Kvaratskhelia's Ballon d'Or Prospects and World Cup Factor
Kvaratskhelia played a key role in PSG's Champions League triumph last season, solidifying his reputation among the world's best wingers. However, his Ballon d'Or chances face a significant hurdle: Georgia failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and observers believe his absence from the tournament could weigh heavily on voters' minds.
In related news, Legit.ng previously reported updated Ballon d'Or rankings after the Super Cup, noting Ousmane Dembele's improved chances for a second consecutive win, though he still trails Harry Kane. The final outcome will be determined by voters later this year.
