PSG and the “Joker wildcard”: could sign after Kvaratskhelia’s injury

PSG confirmed Kvicha Kvaratskhelia has a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee, an injury that likely rules him out for the rest of the season. The setback also stacks on top of muscle injuries to Marquinhos and Dembélé, leaving Luis Enrique’s attack in a tougher spot despite having options such as Désiré Doué, Ferran Torres, Mika Godts, Akliouche and Ndjantou.

What the Joker wildcard is

As Mundo Deportivo explains, France doesn’t have a rule like LaLiga’s that allows a field player to be replaced for a long-term injury in domestic or European matches, aside from specific cases involving goalkeepers or injuries sustained with the French national team. Still, Ligue 1 introduced the “Joker wildcard” back in the 2000s. It’s an extra route that could be studied by PSG.

From the end of the summer transfer window until the winter one starts, French clubs can sign players registered with the French Football Federation—meaning within Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. If PSG decides to act, it would be by reaching an agreement with the owning club, or possibly paying the relevant clause. Another possibility would be signing a free agent, though no standout option is mentioned right now.