French-Malian star Ousmane Dembele declared fit for PSG’s Champions League showdown with Bayern
Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele has been declared fit for Tuesday’s Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich, according to coach Luis Enrique.
The French winger, who was on target in PSG’s Club World Cup win over the German champions earlier this year, is set to return to full action after recent fitness concerns.
Born in France to a Mauritanian mother and a Malian father, Dembele represents a blend of African heritage and French flair that has defined his playing style.
He felt discomfort in his right thigh during PSG’s visit to Lorient last week and was limited to just 18 minutes in the weekend’s Ligue 1 fixture against Nice.
His recovery comes as a major boost for the French champions ahead of a crucial European tie.
“We do not take risks with any players. But Ousmane Dembele is fit, he has been in every training session for the last two weeks,” Luis Enrique told reporters.
“He is improving his physical fitness and he will certainly play tomorrow. I do not know for how many minutes, but he will play because he is ready to compete.”
Dembele scored a stoppage-time goal when a nine-man PSG beat Bayern 2-0 in July, a result that set the tone for their strong campaign.
Since that defeat, Bayern have embarked on an impressive 15-match winning streak across all competitions, dominating both the Bundesliga and Europe.
Both PSG and Bayern head into Tuesday’s clash with perfect Champions League records after three matches, level on points and goal difference.
PSG, unbeaten in their last eight games, will look to maintain their home momentum.
“We know how difficult it will be. We are ready and motivated to win,” said Luis Enrique.
“In front of our supporters, with the atmosphere we create every game, we’re confident we can improve our performance level to overcome their pressure.”
The fixture at Parc des Princes promises to be one of the season’s standout matches, with Dembele’s return adding flair and speed to PSG’s attacking arsenal.
