New Delhi: Former Manchester City striker Mikheil Kavelashvili is poised to become Georgia’s next president following his nomination by the ruling Georgian Dream party. Kavelashvili, 53, is set to assume the largely ceremonial role after a parliamentary vote on December 14, with his inauguration scheduled for December 29. He is now set to become only the second footballer to transition from the pitch to assuming the Presidency of a country.
Kavelashvili’s footballing career began at Dinamo Tbilisi, one of Georgia’s most prominent clubs. In 1995, he made the leap to the Premier League by joining Manchester City during the 1995-96 season. His time in England was brief but memorable. Kavelashvili scored on his debut in a dramatic 3-2 defeat against Manchester United, a goal that etched his name into the memories of City fans despite the team’s relegation from the Premier League that season. Over the course of his City career, he made 28 appearances and scored three goals.
His stay at Manchester City was cut short due to work permit issues after failing to play the required number of games. This led to a loan move to Swiss club Grasshoppers, where he eventually made a permanent transfer, bringing an end to his time in English football. Kavelashvili’s shift from the football field to the political arena marks a significant transition. Known for his anti-Western stance, he represents the conservative views of the Georgian Dream party.
Mikheil Kavelashvili elected by “ruling” party GD as their presidential candidate.
Mind you, the former Man City forward wasn’t allowed to register for the football federation elections back in 2015 due to him not having a valid diploma.
Heritage… pic.twitter.com/dJeZFa6V37
— Georgian Footy (@GeorgianFooty) November 27, 2024
His nomination comes at a politically charged time, with President Salome Zourabichvili openly criticizing the government for allegedly favoring Russian interests. Despite the ceremonial nature of the presidency, Kavelashvili’s impending election signifies Georgian Dream’s continued influence over the country’s political landscape.
With a strong backing from the parliamentary body largely controlled by Georgian Dream, Kavelashvili’s path to the presidency appears assured. His rise from a Premier League striker to the highest office in Georgia underscores a unique journey blending sports and politics. His tenure will likely be closely watched, both for its symbolic value and its potential impact on Georgia’s geopolitical direction.
Following in the footsteps on legendary striker George Weah
1988: Arsene Wenger signs George Weah for Monaco
1995: George Weah wins Ballon d’Or
2018: George Weah becomes President of Liberia, awards Wenger his nation’s highest honour for services to football pic.twitter.com/INbjnv1INY
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 25, 2018
George Weah is a prime example of a footballer who successfully transitioned into a political leader. Widely regarded as one of the greatest African footballers of all time, Weah’s illustrious career began in Liberia and took him across Europe. Known for his speed, dribbling, and goal-scoring prowess, he won the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year in 1995, becoming the first African to receive these honors. He played for top clubs like Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and Chelsea, earning multiple league titles and personal accolades.
Despite his immense talent, he never played in a FIFA World Cup due to Liberia’s underdeveloped football infrastructure. After retiring in 2003, Weah ventured into politics, founding the Congress for Democratic Change. Although he initially lost the 2005 presidential election, he persisted, winning a Senate seat in 2014. In 2017, Weah was elected as Liberia’s 25th president, serving until 2024. His leadership combined the discipline and dedication he displayed on the football field with a commitment to improving Liberia’s political landscape.
Former Manchester City striker Mikheil Kavelashvili is set to become the President of European nation Georgia and becomes the second footballer to become a President. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
