Boost for PSG as Ousmane Dembélé’s injury fears ease after Monaco scare

Paris Saint-Germain have been handed a welcome lift after early indications suggested Franco-Malian winger Ousmane Dembélé avoided a serious injury during their Champions League playoff win over AS Monaco.

Dembélé was forced off in the 27th minute of the first-leg encounter, which PSG eventually won 3–2 after a dramatic comeback from two goals down. The French international’s withdrawal immediately raised concern within the Parisian camp, particularly given his recent history with muscle issues.

However, optimism has grown following encouraging feedback from the player himself. Per reports, Dembélé reported on Wednesday morning that the pain in his left calf had almost completely subsided. While a definitive diagnosis will depend on the results of further medical tests, the winger remains confident that the problem is not as severe as initially feared.

Dembélé had been managing discomfort for several days before the Monaco clash, with the issue first surfacing during PSG’s previous outing against Rennes. Despite those concerns, the 26-year-old was keen to feature and pushed to be included in the starting lineup.

Head coach Luis Enrique, known for placing trust in his players’ judgement, selected Dembélé from the start, even though warning signs reportedly emerged during the final training session before kick-off.

Inside the PSG camp, there is hope that the situation could mirror a recent recovery involving Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who returned just ten days after suffering an ankle injury against Newcastle United earlier this year, despite initial fears of a lengthy absence.

Dembélé’s positive outlook suggests that swelling in the calf muscle may already be reducing, while the early substitution—making way for Bradley Barcola—could prove crucial in preventing a more serious setback.

PSG will now await the results of further medical assessments, but the mood in Paris is cautiously optimistic as attention turns to the remainder of the Champions League tie and upcoming domestic commitments.