Ousmane Dembele’s Rise: From Doubt to Ballon d’Or Glory
Ousmane Dembele’s 2024-25 season culminated in a tearful Ballon d’Or win, fulfilling Xavi’s 2021 prediction that he could become the world’s best. Overcoming injuries and doubts, the 28-year-old led PSG to a Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Champions League treble, outshining stars like Mohamed Salah and Kylian Mbappe.
Dembele’s Stellar Season
Dembele’s 35 goals and 14 assists powered PSG’s treble and a Club World Cup final run. His form surged after a slow start, making him Europe’s top forward by 2025, per stats. Despite competition from Salah’s goal involvements, Mbappe’s scoring, and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Dembele’s consistency won the Ballon d’Or in Paris.
Tactical Shift After Mbappe’s Exit
PSG signed Dembele for £43.5m in 2023, but Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid in 2024 elevated him. Manager Luis Enrique urged a selfish streak, saying, “We want goals from you.” Moving from right wing to false nine, Dembele thrived with more touches and freedom, doubling his best goal tally with 51 involvements.
Overcoming Past Challenges
Dembele’s Barcelona tenure saw 14 muscle injuries and 784 days sidelined, plus fines for tardiness. His 2021 marriage and fatherhood marked a turning point. Adopting better nutrition and working with a French nutritionist, he transformed his lifestyle. “He grew up,” insiders noted, as specialized treatments kept him fit.
A New PSG Leader
Dembele’s reinvention, sparked by personal growth and Enrique’s faith, made him PSG’s talisman. His explosive pace and dribbling, once inconsistent, now define him. “Ballon d’Or, Ballon d’Or,” coaches chanted, pushing him to glory.
