So far, it’s been a rollercoaster ride for Ousmane Dembélé in Year 1 at Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old has had moments where he looks like a world-class player and then other head-scratching instances.
Nonetheless, manager Luis Enrique remains a fan of Dembélé’s and continues to back the Frenchman. The Spanish manager spoke with reporters postgame after PSG’s 3-0 win over Strasbourg on Saturday at the Parc des Princes and analyzed the forward’s recent form.
“I think we have to take advantage of Ous,’ “Enrique told reporters (h/t Culture PSG). “He is a unique player, in my opinion. I have no problem with him not scoring or being decisive in passing. He generates numerical superiorities, fixes three opposing players, and creates space for his teammates.
“He has no fear of being tackled, of falling. He presses and defends. We must take advantage of him. He will improve, that’s for sure. Yes, there will also be days when things go less well. It is vital, key for us. I have no concerns about him. I’m in love with Ousmane’s game, and I don’t see anything wrong with him.”
The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner came off the bench for PSG in the win. The winger played 24 minutes while having 29 touches. Nonetheless, these minutes will likely warm Dembélé up for AC Milan.
Dembélé played in France’s 4-1 friendly win over Scotland but stayed on the bench for the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match against the Netherlands. As a result, Enrique wants to ease him back before the UEFA Champions League contest against AC Milan on Wednesday at the Parc des Princes.
