PSG face Botafogo in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, but will have to do so without one of their biggest stars, Ousmane Dembele.
Paris Saint-Germain continue their campaign in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a crucial Group B matchup against Brazil’s Botafogo on Matchday 2. Both teams opened the tournament with victories and are now battling to take sole control of the group. However, the French side will have to do so without one of their key stars—Ousmane Dembele.
PSG come into this game following a historic season in which they won every competition they entered, capped by their first-ever UEFA Champions League title after a commanding 5–0 victory over Inter Milan in the final. They began the Club World Cup with a dominant 4–0 win against Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid.
Luis Enrique’s team now prepare for their second group stage test against Botafogo, who also won their opening match, defeating the Seattle Sounders 2–1. The winner of this game will move to the top of Group B and take a major step toward qualification for the knockout stage.
However, PSG remain without one of their most influential players. Dembele suffered a left quadriceps injury during the UEFA Nations League semifinals with France, which rules him out for the game against Botafogo. While the coaching staff hope to have him back in time for the knockout rounds, his availability remains in doubt.
When could Dembele return?
According to the medical report following the injury he sustained during the UEFA Nations League semifinals with France, Dembele is expected to be sidelined for approximately two to three weeks. That timeline could see him available just in time for the final matchday of the group stage.
However, it’s likely that Luis Enrique won’t take any unnecessary risks with the former Barcelona winger. A more realistic scenario would see Dembele return to official action for PSG during the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
A stellar season in Paris
Dembele’s absence is a blow for PSG, especially considering the elite level he’s reached this season. The former Barcelona winger appeared in 49 matches, scoring 33 goals and recording 15 assists. His performances have elevated him into the Ballon d’Or conversation and made him an indispensable part of PSG’s attack.
In addition to his personal accolades, Dembélé played a key role in securing four titles this season: Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, the Trophee des Champions, and—most notably—PSG’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title.
From: bolavip.com
