Paris Saint-Germain are holding their breath after star forward Ousmane Dembele was forced off with an injury scare during their final Ligue 1 match of the season, less than two weeks before their Champions League final showdown against Arsenal, according to SPORTbible.
The 29-year-old attacking talisman, who has enjoyed a stellar season, was substituted after just 27 minutes of PSG’s 2-1 defeat to local rivals Paris FC on Saturday. Dembele reportedly experienced early discomfort, prompting manager Luis Enrique to replace him with striker Goncalo Ramos.
Initial optimism despite early exit
Despite the concerning early withdrawal, initial assessments from the PSG camp suggest the injury may not be serious. Manager Luis Enrique expressed cautious optimism in his post-match press conference.
“I think it’s just fatigue,” Enrique stated. “What we’re saying today is just speculation, but I don’t think it’s anything serious, and there are still two weeks left.”
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This sentiment was echoed by prominent sports journalist Fabrizio Romano, who, citing reports from RMC Sport in France, relayed that PSG staff believe Dembele’s injury setback was “not serious” and considered it only a precaution ahead of the crucial Champions League final. Further medical examinations are scheduled for Monday to fully ascertain the extent of the issue.
Dembele’s crucial role for club and country
Dembele’s potential absence would be a significant blow for PSG, who have already secured the Ligue 1 title. He has been a pivotal figure in their attack this season, contributing significantly with:
19 goals in all competitions
11 assists across all competitions
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His impressive form was recently recognized with the Ligue 1 Player of the Season award for the second consecutive campaign. Beyond his club commitments, Dembele is also expected to be a key part of the France squad for the World Cup this summer, making his fitness a concern for national team selectors as well.
Contrasting paths to the final
PSG’s final Ligue 1 fixture was their last competitive game before the Champions League final on Saturday, May 30. Despite the upcoming showpiece event, Luis Enrique opted to field a strong side for the derby clash, a decision that now carries added scrutiny following Dembele’s injury.
Their opponents, Arsenal, face a more congested schedule leading up to the final. The Gunners still have two Premier League matches to navigate, against Burnley and Crystal Palace, as they push to wrap up the English title. Arsenal could even secure the league crown in midweek if Manchester City drop points against Bournemouth.
All eyes will now be on the results of Dembele’s medical tests, as PSG hope their attacking talisman will be fit to lead the line in European football’s biggest club match.
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Sources: www.sportbible.com
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