Ousmane Dembele Returns to PSG Squad for Nice Clash After Champions League Exclusion

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has reinstated the French winger, Ousmane Dembele, into their squad as they prepare to face Nice in the French league. Dembele’s return follows his exclusion from the team that suffered a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League earlier this week.

PSG’s head coach, Luis Enrique, faced criticism for omitting Dembele, regarded as one of PSG’s most creative players, especially in the wake of Kylian Mbappe‘s departure to Real Madrid. Enrique has named Dembele in a squad of 21 players traveling for the crucial league match, with PSG poised to reclaim the top spot in the standings with a victory.

The coach had previously cited Dembele for a perceived lack of commitment but did not elaborate on the details. However, Enrique refuted allegations of a personal conflict with the French international, following reports of a verbal clash between the two after PSG’s 3-1 victory over Rennes, where Dembele contributed an assist.

“There is just a problem of commitment toward the team, it’s not a problem between the player and the coach,” Enrique clarified through a translator. Despite the controversy, Dembele has been instrumental in PSG’s unbeaten league run, tallying four goals and three assists across six matches.

Enrique justified his decision to exclude Dembele from the Arsenal fixture, stating it was the best choice with the backing of the club’s director. During Dembele’s absence, PSG’s attacking alternatives were Randal Kolo Muani and Dsir Dou.

PSG right-back Achraf Hakimi emphasized the unity within the squad, stating, “Other players will be able to take over. The most important thing in the team is the group, and our group is united.”

The decision to reintegrate Dembele comes as PSG aims to leverage his skills to navigate the challenges of the domestic league and maintain their strong position in the European competitions.