Achraf Hakimi addresses Ousmane Dembélé’s absence ahead of Arsenal showdown
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique’s decision to exclude Ousmane Dembélé from the squad for Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Arsenal has sparked widespread discussion. The French winger, a key figure in PSG’s attacking lineup, is believed to have been disciplined by the coach, though the exact reasons remain undisclosed.
Dembélé, who joined PSG this summer from Barcelona, was expected to play a significant role in the upcoming match, but his absence has raised questions among fans and pundits alike.
While the club has remained tight-lipped about the details behind the decision, it has led to speculation about potential off-field issues.
Achraf Hakimi, one of PSG’s standout players and Dembélé’s teammate on the right flank, spoke on the situation during a press conference.
Addressing Dembélé’s absence, Hakimi expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to cope without the French international, highlighting the collective strength of the team.
“I don’t know what the coach’s plan will be to play this Tuesday,” Hakimi said. “But whether Ousmane plays or not, other players will be able to take over.
We know that the most important thing in this PSG is the collective.
We are a united collective, and we know that Ousmane Dembélé gives his best for the team.”
Hakimi’s words reflect PSG’s broader philosophy under Enrique, which emphasizes the importance of team cohesion over individual brilliance.
While Dembélé’s absence may come as a blow to PSG’s attacking plans, the team boasts considerable depth, with multiple players ready to step into the void.
Luis Enrique’s decision to discipline Dembélé has not been elaborated upon by either the coach or the club.
However, it underscores the Spaniard’s strict management style, focusing on discipline and accountability within the squad.
Enrique, who took over the reins at PSG ahead of this season, has been keen to foster a culture of unity and professionalism, insisting that no player is bigger than the team.
With PSG set to face a resurgent Arsenal side, the timing of Dembélé’s omission adds further intrigue to the fixture.
The Gunners, making their return to the Champions League after several seasons, are in impressive form and will provide a stern test for the Parisians.
PSG, however, remains confident that they have the firepower to overcome their Premier League opponents, even without Dembélé in the lineup.
Tuesday’s match is crucial for PSG as they aim to solidify their position in a challenging Champions League group.
Hakimi’s remarks suggest that the team is fully prepared to move forward as a cohesive unit, regardless of individual absences.
Whether or not Dembélé returns for future matches remains uncertain, but PSG’s immediate focus is on securing a positive result against Arsenal.
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on Luis Enrique’s tactical decisions and how PSG performs in Dembélé’s absence.
The French champions will be looking to prove that their strength lies not in individual stars, but in the collective power of the team.
