Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele has sought to calm injury fears following his starring role in their 1-0 win over Arsenal in the Champions League semifinal first leg.
Dembele scored the decisive goal just four minutes into Tuesday night’s clash at the Emirates Stadium and was one of PSG’s liveliest performers until he was substituted in the second half.
The French international, who has Mauritanian and Malian roots, was withdrawn with just under 20 minutes to play, prompting concerns about a possible knock ahead of the second leg in Paris.
His departure came as a surprise, given his influence on the match and the tight scoreline. Coach Luis Enrique admitted after the game that the substitution was related to a physical issue.
“I don’t know anything. Tomorrow, there will be tests. It’s not serious apparently, it’s minor, but there is a doubt for the return leg,” Enrique told reporters, suggesting that PSG will monitor the situation closely.
Dembele, who appeared to walk off without significant difficulty, also attempted to downplay any concerns.
Upon PSG’s return to Paris shortly after midnight, he gave a brief update to journalists waiting at the airport.
“I felt a little something but it’s okay,” he said, offering reassurance that the injury may not be as bad as initially feared.
The 27-year-old has played a key role in PSG’s Champions League campaign this season and his availability will be crucial as the Parisians seek to finish the job at home.
The return leg at Parc des Princes next week will determine who advances to the final, with PSG holding a slender advantage.
