Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill had not been born when Best claimed the Ballon d’Or after helping Manchester United win the European Cup, but he understands the significance of a global star to a smaller football nation.
“George Best remains a legendary name in world football, and we are incredibly fortunate that he was from Northern Ireland. In many respects, he helped bring international attention to our country,” O’Neill said.
“Georgia now has a similar figure in Kvaratskhelia, who I consider to be an elite player.
“In my opinion, he was arguably the standout performer throughout last season’s Champions League. We will clearly need to pay particularly close attention to him.
“Whenever you face a player of that quality, you must recognise that he can decide a match in an instant, produce something exceptional and inspire the rest of his side.”
Although Kvaratskhelia is being considered for major individual honours, Georgia coach Willy Sagnol highlighted his commitment to the team’s success.
The former France defender once played alongside Zinedine Zidane, who received the Ballon d’Or in 1998.
“You mentioned the Ballon d’Or. Football may have changed, but perhaps things were better in the past, when players simply performed and waited until the final announcement before celebrating a victory or accepting their disappointment,” Sagnol said.
“In recent weeks, I have heard too many players repeatedly declaring that they are the best.
“Khvicha has never spoken that way, which makes me very proud to coach him. He is not only an outstanding footballer but also an excellent person who consistently puts the team before himself. I am confident he will demonstrate that again on Friday.”
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