After a victorious night for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) following their impressive 3-0 win against Brest in the UEFA Champions League knockout phase, Ousmane Dembélé stood somewhat unsatisfied despite his stellar contribution of two goals. His mood was not reflective of a player who had just helped his team solidify a significant advantage; instead, he expressed dissatisfaction over missed opportunities, admitting, “I should have scored four.” This incident raises important questions about the evolution of Dembélé’s mentality and his growing role within the team.
A Change in Attitude: The New Dembélé
Traditionally, Dembélé has been viewed as a winger who thrived on creating chances for others rather than finishing them himself. However, under the direction of manager Luis Enrique, Dembélé is now occupying a more central role on the pitch, often playing as a false nine. This shift not only changes the expectations for his performance but also reflects a broader transformation in his mindset. Teammate Vitinha remarked on Dembélé’s current form, emphasizing that his extensive experience ensures he remains an invaluable asset for PSG. Indeed, it appears that Dembélé has undergone a profound change — he is no longer just a facilitator but a key striker.
This evolution is evident when analyzing his recent performance statistics. In just four matches leading up to the Toulouse game, Dembélé scored ten goals, a figure that places him in elite company within European football. Comparatively, the all-time greats Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo had lower goal counts in similar spans during their prime years. Such comparisons illustrate not merely an individual maturation but also Dembélé’s assimilation into a scoring role that is potentially redefining his career trajectory.
Ousmane Dembélé’s numbers are staggering by any metric. Since the start of the 2025 season alone, he has amassed 15 goals in just nine matches, outperforming his entire 2024 season total. The current form places him alongside legendary football figures in PSG and beyond. He has scored in eight consecutive matches, a feat only achieved by a select few in the club’s illustrious history. What stands out is not just the quantity but the efficiency and consistency of his scoring, which had been questioned earlier in his career.
While some may dismiss his feats based on the caliber of opposing teams, it is essential to recognize that elite players must consistently dominate the competition presented to them. Dembélé’s impressive run includes goals against formidable opponents like Lyon and Manchester City, solidifying his credentials as a top-tier player in today’s football landscape.
Turning Points: Overcoming Adversity
The transformation of Dembélé’s game did not happen overnight. Needling at points of contention, his exclusion from a significant match against Arsenal back in October served as a crucial juncture in his career. Luis Enrique was able to leverage that setback in a way that ultimately motivated Dembélé to rethink his approach. The discussions that ensued fostered an environment for Dembélé to refine his skills, particularly in goal-scoring. His commitment to self-improvement through additional training sessions is commendable and crucial for his current level of performance.
Enrique’s strategy to position Dembélé closer to the goal and to encourage intensive shooting drills played a significant role in reshaping the player’s offensive capabilities. Dembélé exhibited remarkable resilience, turning previous disappointments into a fuel for motivation—it’s a testament to both his talent and the mindset that he now embodies. As a player who once struggled with consistency, this newfound confidence is refreshing and indicates a level of maturity that suggests he might finally be living up to his vast potential.
Given his current form, it’s natural to wonder how long Dembélé can maintain this level of performance. While one cannot expect the player to score two goals each game indefinitely, the key lies in his ability to adapt his style of play and continue evolving under the coach’s guidance. As witnesses to his journey, PSG fans can remain hopeful that he will sustain this momentum and elevate not just his game but also the overall prowess of the team.
Ousmane Dembélé’s narrative is a compelling one, highlighting the critical intersection of talent and mindset, skill and tenacity. PSG has blossomed into a formidable team under Luis Enrique’s stewardship, and with Dembélé at the forefront, the club could achieve greatness. The upcoming matches will be crucial in determining if Dembélé can emerge not just as a key player for PSG but also as a potential candidate for individual accolades like the coveted Ballon d’Or.