Central African Habib Habibou reflects on Ousmane Dembélé’s journey to Ballon d’Or glory

Ousmane Dembélé was awarded the 2025 Ballon d’Or on Monday following a stellar season with Paris Saint-Germain.

Former Central African international Habib Habibou, who played alongside Dembélé during his early years at Stade Rennais between 2014 and 2016, shared his reflections on the French winger’s rise to the pinnacle of world football.

Speaking exclusively to Afrik-Foot, Habibou recounted memories of Dembélé’s early days in Brittany, offering insight into the talent, determination, and character that have defined his career.

Asked whether Dembélé deserved the Ballon d’Or, Habibou did not hesitate. “Given the season Ousmane has had, it is absolutely deserved. Looking back at his performances, he has been crucial for his club, scoring consistently and making decisive contributions.

Achieving everything at a top club and winning all the trophies is incredible,” he said. Habibou highlighted the impact of Dembélé’s recent positional change, explaining that playing as a number nine allowed him to enhance his statistics and take leadership at crucial moments.

“Ousmane has had an exceptional season. His technical skills and finishing make him one of the best players in the world today.”

Reflecting on his first impressions of Dembélé at Rennes, Habibou described a young player brimming with confidence and skill. “I was in Rennes while he was with the reserves.

We spent a lot of time together, and I often gave him a lift to training. He had incredible talent and self-belief, able to beat two or three players with either foot. Watching him was a pleasure. What he has achieved today does not surprise me.”

Habibou also noted Dembélé’s respect for senior players and his determination in training. “He had a lot of respect for the elders, which is a reflection of his upbringing and culture. On the pitch, he made it clear that he was ready to claim a place in the team, and he did exactly that.

From Rennes to Borussia Dortmund, his talent was obvious, and he has lived up to every expectation.”

When asked if he could have predicted that Dembélé would one day win the Ballon d’Or, Habibou admitted: “Honestly, no. Even though everyone could see he was a gem, no one could have foreseen he would reach this level. He was one of many talented players at the time, but the heights he has reached are remarkable.”

Habibou also discussed the moment when Dembélé transformed into a world-class player. “It’s difficult to pinpoint an exact moment. His time in Germany and at Barcelona shaped him, and overcoming injuries before arriving in Paris may have strengthened his mindset.

At PSG, he began scoring regularly and perhaps realised just how great he truly is. That mental switch is something only the greats can make, and he has done it beautifully.”

The former striker shared lighter memories as well, including a story from a trip to Guingamp. “After training, I had to drive to get a dog for my son, and I brought Ousmane along.

By the time we arrived at my house, he had already fallen asleep in the car and only woke to ask about the dog. On the way home, he slept the entire journey. Another memory is in the locker room, where there was a song about me, and Ousmane danced along. We had great fun.”

Habibou’s reflections offer a unique glimpse into the formative years of a player who has now reached the very top of world football, cementing Dembélé’s status as one of the game’s elite talents.