Dembele’s transformation since leaving Barcelona

Ousmane Dembele has evolved significantly since his time at FC Barcelona, developing into a more mature, consistent, and influential player.

In just a few months, the French striker who arrived in 2023 has become a leader at Paris Saint-Germain, partly thanks to Luis Enrique, as Dembele himself revealed in an interview with Marca.

After joining PSG in summer 2023, Dembele underwent a remarkable metamorphosis. Suffering from repeated physical problems caused by criticized lifestyle habits and misconduct at Barcelona, the French attacker transformed into a genuine leader in Paris. Luis Enrique and his staff enabled this change, as Dembele admitted.

“I’m lucky to have Luis Enrique and his technical staff on my side,” Dembele said.

“I already felt much better during my last years at Barcelona. In 2021-2022, I was 24 or 25 and things had clearly improved. My early years in Spain were very difficult due to injuries, but in Paris, I continued from those final two seasons at Barcelona. I gained experience and learned to know my body much better, which helped enormously.

“Plus, I’m lucky to have Luis Enrique and his technical staff, who manage my development perfectly. Since arriving at PSG, they optimized everything: my diet, my playing time… This all allowed me to reach optimal form.”

Dembele also reflected on Enrique’s role in his arrival. “I remember very well. I was in Los Angeles on tour with Barcelona when Luis Enrique called me. He explained his projects, his vision of my role, and how he saw our future together at PSG. His words convinced me immediately.”