Ousmane Dembélé’s chances of featuring for Paris Saint-Germain in next week’s Champions League semi-final against Arsenal are looking increasingly slim, with the French forward a major doubt for the return leg.
Dembélé, who has been in sensational form this season, scored his 33rd goal of the campaign to give PSG a 1-0 lead in the first leg at the Emirates on Tuesday night. However, he was forced off midway through the second half due to an injury, casting doubt over his availability for the crucial second leg in Paris next Wednesday.
PSG head coach Luis Enrique confirmed that Dembélé’s condition would need to be closely monitored in the coming days, and the forward will miss PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Strasbourg this evening. The club later issued a statement reassuring fans that his condition was improving but emphasized that further assessments would be conducted.
With the Champions League being PSG’s sole remaining focus after securing the Ligue 1 title, the French champions have just five days to make a decision on whether to risk playing their star attacker. However, with the tight turnaround between games, allowing him to play might carry too much risk.
Stephen Smith, CEO of Kitman Labs, a company specializing in injury analysis and performance welfare, suggests that it is unlikely that Dembélé will be fit to start against Arsenal.
“Even if it’s a grade 1 hamstring injury, the likelihood of him being ready to play within a week is very, very small,” Smith told Metro. “Even with minimal strain, you’re looking at a two-week recovery, so putting him back out there could risk further damage.”
Smith went on to stress the significant risks associated with rushing Dembélé back, particularly given how well he has been performing for PSG this season.
“It’s a high-risk decision, especially in a position as important as a hamstring injury. If you’re not 100% confident, it’s not worth the gamble,” Smith added. “A serious setback could sideline him for a longer period, which could be disastrous for PSG.”
PSG’s medical staff will likely be cautious, given the stakes, as they continue their assessments. Smith explained that the club would adhere to strict ‘return to play’ protocols, using data on Dembélé’s muscle strength and performance to ensure he is fit for action.
“They will have very detailed information on his recovery progress, including muscle strength and running data,” Smith noted. “In such a short window, it’s unlikely they’ll rush him back, as they need to be certain he’s fully ready before risking a serious injury.”
With nothing else to play for this season, PSG may be tempted to push Dembélé back onto the pitch for the second leg, but Smith believes the club will prioritize long-term player welfare over short-term gains.
As PSG head into their biggest game of the season next Wednesday, their decision on Dembélé will be one of the most crucial they face in their quest for European glory.