Paragraph 1: Dembele’s Injury and Recovery
On May 6, 2025, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) coach Luis Enrique delivered positive news regarding Ousmane Dembele’s fitness ahead of their crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal. Dembele, PSG’s star forward, had sustained a hamstring injury during the first leg in London, raising concerns about his availability for the return fixture. The injury occurred in the 70th minute of the match, despite Dembele having scored the decisive goal in the 4th minute. Following the game, Enrique expressed uncertainty about Dembele’s participation in the second leg, stating that there was "a doubt" regarding his fitness. Subsequently, Dembele missed PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Strasbourg on Saturday, further fueling speculation about the severity of his injury.
Paragraph 2: Return to Training and Availability
Despite the initial concerns, Dembele made a swift return to training at the start of the week, offering a glimmer of hope for PSG fans. Enrique confirmed Dembele’s participation in training, stating that the French international had trained with the team for the past two days. Enrique further emphasized the normalcy of Dembele’s training sessions, suggesting that the player had shown no signs of discomfort or limitations. Based on Dembele’s positive response to training, Enrique declared him fit and available for the crucial Champions League clash against Arsenal. This news came as a major boost for PSG, as Dembele’s presence is crucial to their attacking prowess.
Paragraph 3: Dembele’s Importance to PSG
Ousmane Dembele has been an instrumental figure for PSG throughout the 2024-2025 season, consistently delivering exceptional performances and contributing significantly to the team’s success. His goal-scoring record has been particularly impressive, with 33 goals across all competitions, highlighting his importance to the team’s attacking strategy. Dembele’s pace, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing ability make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His presence in the second leg against Arsenal would undoubtedly provide PSG with a significant advantage in their quest to reach the Champions League final. His ability to create chances and score crucial goals makes him a key player for PSG’s tactical setup and offensive strategy.
Paragraph 4: Lee Kang-in’s Update
In addition to Dembele’s positive news, PSG also received a boost from the return of South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in to team training. Lee had sustained a knock during the Strasbourg match, adding to PSG’s injury concerns. However, his participation in the team training session indicated a positive recovery trajectory. While the extent of Lee’s involvement in the Arsenal match remained uncertain, his return to training provided another option for coach Luis Enrique. Lee’s versatility and creativity in midfield make him a valuable asset for PSG, offering both attacking and defensive contributions to the team.
Paragraph 5: Significance of the Champions League Match
The Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal holds immense importance for PSG, representing their opportunity to progress to the prestigious tournament’s final. The first leg victory, secured by Dembele’s early goal, provides PSG with a slender advantage heading into the second leg. However, the tie remains delicately poised, and Arsenal will undoubtedly be determined to overturn the deficit. The return fixture at PSG’s home ground promises a high-stakes encounter, with both teams vying for a place in the final. The outcome of the match will significantly impact both teams’ seasons and their aspirations for European glory.
Paragraph 6: The Pressure on PSG
PSG carries the weight of expectation as they aim to secure Champions League success, a title that has eluded them in recent years. The pressure to perform on the European stage is immense, given the club’s significant investment in their squad and their ambition to establish themselves as a dominant force in European football. The second leg against Arsenal represents a critical juncture in their pursuit of Champions League glory, and their performance will be under intense scrutiny. The match carries significant weight for PSG’s players, coaching staff, and fans alike, as they strive to achieve their ultimate goal of winning the coveted trophy. The result will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding the club and its future ambitions in European competition.
