Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has confirmed that Ousmane Dembélé will be available for the return leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal against Arsenal on Wednesday evening.
The French winger, who has been a standout performer for PSG this season, was forced to leave the field early during the first leg due to a hamstring injury, raising concerns about his availability for the second leg.
Dembélé, of Senegalese and Mauritanian heritage, had become one of PSG’s most crucial players since his summer move from Barcelona.
His electrifying pace and skill on the wing have made him a key figure in the team’s attack.
Despite the injury scare, the 27-year-old has now recovered sufficiently to be included in the squad for the highly anticipated clash against the Gunners.
At his pre-match press conference, Enrique stated, “It’s been two days since he’s been training with the squad. He will be available tomorrow.”
This announcement reassures PSG fans and teammates alike, as Dembélé’s presence could prove vital in overcoming Arsenal’s strong performance in the first leg.
The French forward was notably absent in PSG’s 2-1 Ligue 1 loss to Strasbourg on Saturday, but this was part of a broader tactical decision by Enrique to rotate his squad and ensure his key players are fresh for the Champions League encounter.
Reports from L’Équipe had earlier revealed that Dembélé returned to training on Monday, and Enrique’s confirmation puts to rest any doubts about his fitness.
Dembélé’s recovery comes as a huge boost for PSG, who are aiming to see through a 1-0 win from the first leg in their quest to reach the Champions League final.
