Kvaratskhelia on the Ballon d’Or: “It doesn’t depend on me, but on those who vote”
The Ballon d’Or is the most prestigious individual award in football, capturing the imagination of players and fans alike around the world. This year, one of the exciting names discussed in relation to the award is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Georgian winger whose performances have impressed many. Recently, Kvaratskhelia spoke with L’Équipe about his feelings regarding the Ballon d’Or nominations and what it means to be mentioned among football’s elite.
Humble Attitude Towards the Ballon d’Or
When asked about his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, Kvaratskhelia was characteristically modest:
“It doesn’t depend on me, but on those who vote.”
This statement reflects his understanding that the award is ultimately decided by journalists, national team coaches, and captains around the world. Rather than focusing solely on individual accolades, Kvaratskhelia stresses the collective aspect of football and the respect for those entrusted with making the decision.
The Joy of Being Recognized Among Football Stars
Despite the uncertainty surrounding personal awards, Kvaratskhelia expressed his excitement about simply being part of the conversation:
“To be up there with football stars, it’s already a big pleasure.”
For a player coming from Georgia—a country not traditionally considered a football powerhouse—to be included in the mix is no small feat. His journey from local leagues to one of Europe’s most competitive clubs epitomizes hard work and natural talent paying off. Recognition on this scale is not just a testament to his skills but also to his dedication and impact on the pitch.
Kvaratskhelia’s Season Highlights
To understand why Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s name is being mentioned in Ballon d’Or discussions, it’s worth highlighting some key moments from his season:
- Impressive Club Performances: Playing for Napoli in Serie A, Kvaratskhelia has delivered crucial goals and assists, helping his team compete for the top spots.
- Technical Skill: Known for his dribbling and creativity, he has consistently broken defensive lines and created scoring opportunities.
- Consistency: Unlike many young players who have brief spells of brilliance, Kvaratskhelia has maintained a high level of performance throughout the campaign.
- Team Contribution: Beyond stats, his energy and work rate make him invaluable in both attack and defense.
What the Ballon d’Or Means for Players Like Kvaratskhelia
The Ballon d’Or often is more than just an individual award; it can elevate a player’s profile internationally and inspire future generations. For Kvaratskhelia, being named among potential candidates does several things:
- Recognition on a Global Stage: It puts Georgian football in the spotlight and raises the profile of the domestic football infrastructure.
- Motivation to Improve: Being mentioned among the world’s best can fuel desire to improve and reach even higher levels.
- Inspiration for Youth: Young players in Georgia and elsewhere can look up to him as a role model capable of breaking into elite European football.
The Voting Process and What It Entails
Kvaratskhelia’s comments about the voting process highlight the complexity behind the Ballon d’Or. The award is determined by votes from:
- Football journalists from various countries
- National team coaches
- National team captains
This system is designed to weigh a global perspective and avoid bias toward any single league or nationality. Consequently, players know their fate lies partly outside their control, relying on performances that resonate across multiple competitions and international stages.
Looking Ahead
Whatever the final outcome of the Ballon d’Or voting, Kvaratskhelia’s positive and grounded outlook is refreshing. His focus remains on continuing to perform well and contribute to his team’s success rather than solely chasing personal trophies.
For fans following his journey, the hope is that this recognition is only the beginning of a long and fruitful career at the top level of football.
Summary
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s recent interview with L’Équipe revealed his humble view on the Ballon d’Or award, acknowledging it “doesn’t depend on me, but on those who vote.” Being mentioned among football’s best stars already brings him great joy and pride. As he continues to shine with Napoli, Kvaratskhelia’s remarkable rise is a beacon of inspiration for many, showing that dedication and talent can earn a place among football’s elite, regardless of origin.
