As the 2026 Ballon d'Or approaches, Paris Saint-Germain players Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia have engaged in a lighthearted exchange of praise. In an interview with Ligue 1+, the two attackers, who are both contenders for the prestigious award, sang each other's praises. This friendly exchange highlights the importance of teamwork within the Parisian club. Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia have been instrumental in PSG's success, helping the team secure multiple titles, including a second consecutive Champions League trophy.
The Paris Saint-Germain team has had an impressive season, winning five trophies: the UEFA Super Cup, the Intercontinental Cup, the Champions Trophy, Ligue 1, and the Champions League. The team's attacking prowess was a key factor in their success, with 45 goals scored in the Champions League, equaling the record set by FC Barcelona in the 1999-2000 season. Kvaratskhelia has been a standout player, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists in the Champions League. His performances earned him the UEFA Best Player in the Champions League award for the 2025-2026 season.
Dembélé has also had an outstanding season, scoring eight goals in 13 Champions League appearances and finding the net in the final against Arsenal. In Ligue 1, he has scored 10 goals and provided six assists, earning him the Best Player award at the UNFP Trophies for the second consecutive season. Kvaratskhelia has expressed his admiration for Dembélé, stating that he would vote for his teammate if he had to choose. He praises Dembélé's leadership and attitude, describing them as "really important" and "incredible."
The two players have developed a strong understanding on the pitch, with Dembélé praising Kvaratskhelia's performance against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final. Kvaratskhelia, in turn, has been impressed by Dembélé's skills, often reacting with amazement to his teammate's plays. Their connection has become one of the strengths of the PSG team, with both players acknowledging the ease with which they work together.
Despite their individual successes, Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia emphasize the importance of teamwork in their achievements. They credit their coach, Luis Enrique, for instilling a collective mindset within the team, often reminding them to prioritize the team's interests over individual goals. This approach has contributed to PSG's success, with the team displaying a strong attacking threat and retaining their European title.
The Ballon d'Or 2026 ceremony will recognize one player's achievements, but the nominations of Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia also highlight PSG's impressive season. The two players have been key figures in the team's success, and their individual performances have been recognized through various awards. As the ceremony approaches, fans will be watching closely to see which player takes home the prestigious award.
Ultimately, the 2026 Ballon d'Or will be awarded to one player, but the exchange between Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia showcases the strong team dynamic within PSG. Their praise for each other underscores the importance of teamwork in their individual successes and sets a positive tone for the team's future endeavors.
Key points
- - Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia exchange compliments ahead of the 2026 Ballon d'Or. - The two PSG players have been instrumental in the team's success, including a second consecutive Champions League title. - They emphasize the importance of teamwork in their individual achievements.
