Zinedine Zidane backs Ousmane Dembele despite France criticism

Zinedine Zidane has defended Ousmane Dembele after the France forward came under pressure despite his side’s 4-1 victory over Belgium.

Dembele, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, was unable to rediscover his best form while playing on the right wing. He has also endured a difficult period with the national team, having failed to score in any of France’s four matches since Zidane took charge.

However, Zidane rejected the suggestion that Dembele had performed poorly and said he was satisfied with the Paris Saint-Germain player’s contribution.

“I think Ousmane was very good, especially at the start of the match and until the beginning of the second half,” Zidane said at his post-match news conference.

“He was extremely dynamic, and there is no problem with that.”

The France manager added: “We are used to seeing him play in all positions, and he is good in every position. I am satisfied with what he produced.

“He was our leader and a good example for all his team-mates, and I am happy.”

Zidane’s support came as Dembele faced increasing scrutiny over his attacking output for France. The forward’s lack of goals since the new manager’s appointment had placed him under added pressure before the meeting with Belgium.

Michael Olise instead took centre stage late in the match. He scored twice, in the 88th minute and at 90+1, and also provided the assist for Rayan Cherki’s goal in the 81st minute as France secured a convincing win.

Despite Dembele’s reduced impact in front of goal for the national side, Zidane appears to retain complete confidence in him. The manager remains committed to backing the Paris Saint-Germain star and France captain in the next stage of his tenure.