Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has thrown his full support behind Ousmane Dembélé as a top contender for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, following the French winger’s outstanding performance in PSG’s dominant 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final.
The emphatic victory on Saturday night sealed a historic treble for PSG—Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League—marking a milestone moment in the club’s history. Though Dembélé didn’t get his name on the scoresheet during the final, his contribution on and off the ball left a lasting impression on his manager and fans worldwide.
“Ousmane Is My Ballon d’Or”
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Luis Enrique was full of admiration for the 28-year-old forward’s all-round performance, especially highlighting his leadership, pressing, and defensive commitment.
“I’d give the Ballon d’Or to Ousmane Dembélé,” Enrique told reporters passionately. “The way he defended tonight… only that can be worthy of the Ballon d’Or. This is how you lead a team—goals, titles, leadership, defending, how he was pressing. Ousmane is my Ballon d’Or. No doubts at all.”
The former Barcelona manager emphasized that while Dembélé may not have scored in the final, his impact was undeniable, playing a key role in PSG’s tactical execution and relentless energy throughout the 90 minutes.
Dembélé’s Remarkable Season
Ousmane Dembélé’s statistics this season reflect his evolution into one of the most complete forwards in European football. Across all competitions, the French international has racked up 33 goals and 15 assists, spearheading PSG’s attack alongside Kylian Mbappé and Randal Kolo Muani.
More than just numbers, his work ethic and consistency have been central to PSG’s dominance both domestically and on the continental stage. His pressing from the front, creativity on the wing, and improved finishing have silenced critics who once questioned his potential during his injury-riddled years at Barcelona.
Dembélé’s resurgence at PSG under Enrique has also positioned him firmly among the leading candidates for football’s most prestigious individual accolade.
Competition for the Ballon d’Or
Despite Enrique’s unwavering support, Dembélé faces stiff competition for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Barcelona stars Raphinha and Lamine Yamal are both considered strong contenders, especially after their impressive performances in La Liga and the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.
However, what sets Dembélé apart is his role in guiding PSG to an unprecedented treble—a feat that often weighs heavily in Ballon d’Or voting. His performance on the biggest stages, including decisive matches in the Champions League knockout rounds, has made a compelling case for his candidacy.
Champions League Final: PSG’s Statement Win
PSG’s 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the final at Wembley was not just a win—it was a statement. Goals from Mbappé (2), Kolo Muani, Vitinha, and Hakimi saw the Parisians lift the coveted trophy in style, erasing past disappointments in the competition.
While Dembélé did not find the back of the net, his fingerprints were all over the performance—linking play, tracking back, initiating counterattacks, and helping neutralize Inter’s wide threats. It was a mature, team-first display that underlined why Luis Enrique sees him as more than just a goal scorer.
“This wasn’t just a victory; it was domination,” Enrique said in his post-match comments. “Everyone played their part, but Ousmane’s contribution was different—he led by example.”
From Injury-Prone to World-Class
Dembélé’s journey to this point has been anything but easy. Plagued by injuries during his time at Barcelona, many had written him off as a talent who would never fulfill his early promise. However, his move to PSG in the summer of 2023 proved to be a turning point.
Under Luis Enrique’s guidance, he has found consistency, fitness, and a clearly defined role. His tactical intelligence, dribbling flair, and new-found maturity have elevated him to world-class status.
Football analysts now view Dembélé as a model of perseverance—someone who overcame setbacks to emerge stronger, more complete, and more impactful.
A National Hero in the Making?
With UEFA Euro 2024 still fresh in memory and the FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Dembélé is also expected to play a pivotal role in France’s future campaigns. National team coach Didier Deschamps has repeatedly lauded Dembélé’s transformation, calling him “one of the most versatile and dangerous attackers in the world today.”
His consistent club form is likely to earn him a starting place in France’s competitive lineup, which could further strengthen his case for the Ballon d’Or if he maintains his trajectory.
What Comes Next?
For now, Dembélé and PSG will bask in the glory of a season to remember. With a treble secured and individual accolades potentially on the horizon, the 2024–2025 campaign has redefined both the club’s legacy and Dembélé’s standing in world football.
As pundits and fans debate this year’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, Luis Enrique’s endorsement may carry significant weight. After all, few managers know the player better—or have helped him rediscover his best form—than the Spaniard himself.
“Ousmane is the heartbeat of this team,” Enrique concluded. “He’s not just a great player—he’s a leader, a fighter, and in my opinion, the best footballer in the world this season.”
