Ousmane Dembele answers critics with starring display in Champions League win

Ousmane Dembele responded to criticism over his inconsistent start to the season by scoring twice and setting up two more goals in his side’s 6-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League.

The France international was involved in four of his team’s goals before being substituted after 64 minutes, producing the energetic performance that had been missing during the opening weeks of the campaign.

Dembele had been replaced at half-time against Rennes, was left out of the squad for the meeting with Lille and played only 20 minutes against Monaco. Those appearances had led to a difficult and uneven start to the season, but he erased any early doubts with an impressive display against Slovan Bratislava.

Although their opponents were not regarded as one of the competition’s strongest teams, Dembele showed the enthusiasm and attacking intent expected of him. He moved across the forward line, exchanged positions with his team-mates, scored twice, missed several opportunities and created both of Ferran Torres’ goals.

Speaking to Canal+ after the match, Dembele said his performance was also a message to manager Luis Enrique after a frustrating opening period.

“Certainly. After a somewhat difficult start where I did not play much… I only played 20 or 45 minutes, it was not easy to come back. Today, I am happy, I had enough energy to play 60 minutes. We had to win because we started the season badly, and we needed a strong start in the Champions League.”

He added: “We are happy, and I am also happy with my performance. We also have to climb the league table, we have to keep going.”

Dembele was also asked about his state of mind as he waits for an extension to his contract. The forward insisted that the negotiations were not affecting his focus when he was on the pitch.

“Well, when I am on the pitch, I do not think about that (extending my contract). I needed to regain my fitness after the World Cup and a short holiday. I feel better and better. I hope to get more playing time to regain my rhythm. The same applies to the national team.”

He said the elements of the game he enjoyed most had all been present against Slovan Bratislava.

“Scoring, creating goals and winning everything I love about football. Our start was bad, against Lens and in the league as well, we struggled. It was a great evening, we have to continue in this way and be more ambitious.”

Dembele also underlined the pressure that comes with being a team that has already won the Champions League twice.

“We have won the Champions League twice, and every team wants to beat us. The new players also need to learn quickly. We want to win many matches and trophies.”

The result gave his side the strong opening to its European campaign that Dembele said had been necessary after a troubled beginning domestically. The winger’s contribution also offered Luis Enrique evidence that he is moving back towards full fitness and match sharpness.

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