On the other hand, Dembélé, who joined PSG as a high-profile signing, potentially as a Neymar replacement, has not been starting as regularly, with only two starts in the last five games4. The reasons behind Dembélé’s sporadic inclusion in the starting lineup are perceived as more related to sporting decisions rather than any off-field politics.
This contrast in the treatment of the two players has not gone unnoticed, with Mbappé’s situation seemingly casting a shadow over Dembélé’s role at the club. Despite this, both players are crucial to PSG’s ambitions and their contributions on the field will be vital for the team’s success in domestic and European competitions. It remains to be seen how the club will navigate these internal dynamics as they progress through the season.
Luis Enrique words about Dembélé’s playing time
The winger has in the past suffered from severe injury problems during his time at Barcelona. A fact that Luis Enrique has alluded to when speaking ahead of the Coupe de France quarter-final against OGC Nice. “We study every little detail for all players individually. All matches are important. Matches like tomorrow or in the Champions League are of a high level, which requires us to present our strongest lineup.”
“Dembélé has no problem, he was available [against Stade de Reims]. We think that the best training is playing,” Luis Enrique continued, “But we have to control playing time, especially for explosive players like Dembélé and Mbappé.”
The manager finished by stating, “We consider what is best for the team, and that means playing more or less minutes depending on the circumstances.”