Luis Enrique has praised Ousmane Dembélé for his relentless defensive work, urging fans to appreciate more than just the forward’s attacking brilliance as Paris Saint-Germain prepare for their Champions League final against Arsenal FC.
Dembélé has been one of PSG’s standout performers since joining from FC Barcelona in 2023 for around €50 million, following Barcelona’s earlier €148 million move for him from Borussia Dortmund. Under Enrique, the 29-year-old has developed into a more complete player, contributing not only in attack but also in defensive phases.
This season, he has delivered impressive numbers, including seven goals in 12 Champions League appearances, while his overall PSG record stands at 60 goals and 42 assists in 134 matches. However, Enrique insisted that his defensive contribution is just as important to the team’s success.
The PSG coach explained that Dembélé’s commitment without the ball is a key part of the squad’s structure, comparing modern football demands to basketball, where players must contribute in both attack and defence.
“He defends all the time, regardless of the match or the minute,” Enrique said. “People always talk about what he does offensively, but not enough about his defensive work. In football, when you don’t have the ball, you must defend. It is like basketball, you attack and defend, otherwise it is impossible.”
Despite the praise, PSG have been monitoring Dembélé’s fitness after he picked up a minor calf issue during a recent Ligue 1 defeat to Paris FC. The forward is currently undergoing treatment at the club’s training base, with staff optimistic he will recover in time for the final.
As PSG fine-tune their preparations, Dembélé’s availability and all-round contribution remain key factors in their bid for Champions League glory.
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