‘I think more responsibility came with Ballon d’Or, says Ousmane Dembele ahead of Champions League final

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele insists winning the Ballon d’Or has not altered his approach to football, revealing that the prestigious individual honour has instead increased the sense of responsibility he carries within the French champions as they prepare for another UEFA Champions League final.

Dembele addressed the media on the eve of PSG’s showdown with Arsenal, where Luis Enrique’s side will attempt to retain the European crown they captured last season and further cement their place among the continent’s elite.

The French international, one of PSG’s standout performers over the past year, said personal accolades remain secondary to collective success despite the attention that accompanied his Ballon d’Or triumph.

Ballon d’Or glory brings greater responsibility

The 29-year-old dismissed suggestions that football’s most coveted individual award had changed him, stressing that his hunger for trophies remains as strong as ever.

“It hasn’t changed how I play or who I am. I think I just have more responsibility on my shoulders since I came to PSG. Nothing changed with my winning appetite though, I still want to wear silverware with our team.”

Dembele acknowledged that the award generated widespread discussion but maintained that team achievements continue to drive him.

“Individual prizes got the people talking, but for me, the most important thing is winning with PSG.”

His comments reflect the mentality that has helped PSG sustain their dominance domestically while becoming a consistent force on the European stage.

Respect for Arsenal challenge

While attention has largely centred on PSG’s attempt to make history, Dembele was quick to praise Arsenal, describing the Premier League side as deserving finalists.

“Arsenal is an excellent team, we’ve seen them running away with the Premier League title and what they showed us in the Champions League.”

“They deserve to be in the final. They play great football across the board. They’ve got an exceptional coach, too.”

Arsenal’s impressive run to the final has earned widespread admiration across Europe, and Dembele believes the London club will provide a stern test in the showpiece occasion.

Injury concerns put to rest

PSG supporters had feared the winger could miss the final after he suffered a calf injury towards the end of the Ligue 1 campaign. However, Dembele revealed he never doubted his availability for the match in Budapest.

“I wasn’t scared about missing the final, I had 10-15 days to get ready.”

The forward admitted the season had been physically demanding for PSG, whose packed schedule offered little opportunity for recovery. The club moved almost directly from the FIFA Club World Cup into the UEFA Super Cup and the domestic campaign, leaving players with minimal rest.

Despite the workload, Dembele said the squad has arrived at the final in peak condition.

“But we’re 100% ready to go.”

Enrique influence key to PSG success

Dembele also reserved praise for head coach Luis Enrique, crediting the Spaniard with helping him elevate his game both in possession and without the ball.

“He’s helped me progress a lot, with and without the ball. I try to implement all the tactical advice he gives me.”

The winger added that the quality around him has also contributed significantly to his development, highlighting the strength of PSG’s squad as they chase another European title.

PSG eye another historic night

Having lifted the Champions League trophy last season, PSG now have the opportunity to become back-to-back European champions, a feat that would further strengthen the club’s growing legacy.

Dembele said the ambition within the dressing room remains as high as ever, pointing to the youthful nature of the squad and its relentless desire for success.

“We are a young, highly ambitious squad. Winning tomorrow is important for us and if we could pull it off, winning again would be historical.”

As PSG stand one match away from another continental triumph, Dembele believes the belief within the squad, combined with the club’s winning mentality, gives them every reason to dream.

“We’ve got incredible staff, players, desire to win. We know we can win the Champions League.”