Paris Saint-Germain will continue their Champions League journey in Germany against Bayer Leverkusen. Notably, Ousmane Dembele will start from the bench as he makes his return after a significant injury layoff.
Dembele is gradually reintegrating into the team after recovering from a right hamstring strain sustained on September 5, while playing for France in a UEFA qualifier against Ukraine. He came on as a substitute but had to leave the match due to injury—a hamstring issue confirmed later by PSG.
This injury led to some friction between PSG and the French national team, as PSG officials expressed dissatisfaction with the management of the situation. Reports indicate that PSG’s medical team called for better communication and cooperation between the club and national team doctors, citing concerns over injury management.
After nearly a month of recovery, Dembele is now back with the team along with Desire Doue and Marquinhos, who were also injured.
Luis Enrique on Dembele’s return
Dembele has not played since winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. PSG manager Luis Enrique made it clear that he is focused on Dembele as a player rather than on the award itself.
“You [the media] see things differently,” Luis Enrique told reporters at a press conference. “He isn’t just the Ballon d’Or; he is Ousmane Dembele. His character and the energy he brings are vital for the team. The Ballon d’Or is in the past; it has little significance now.”
The Spanish coach also shared his happiness about the return of other important players. “What matters most is having Marquinhos, Desire Doue, and Ousmane back,” Luis Enrique added. “I value his energy and character over the Ballon d’Or. That belongs in the past.”