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Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique has downplayed concerns over Ousmane Dembele’s fitness after the star limped off against Paris FC on Sunday evening.
The Ballon d’Or winner headed straight down the tunnel after managing just 27 minutes in PSG’s 2-1 defeat to their next-door neighbours, while their biggest game of the season – a date with Arsenal in the Champions League Final – is now only 13 days away.
Dembele appeared to clutch his leg before Enrique opted to replace him with Goncalo Ramos in what reports in France have described as a precautionary move over a possible muscle strain.
While those of an Arsenal persuasion may be feeling a flicker of hope at the prospect of the Parisian side missing their most valuable asset for the showpiece occasion, Enrique was quick to shut down any serious speculation.
The Spaniard said after the game: ‘I think it’s just fatigue. What we’re saying today is just speculation, but I don’t think it’s anything serious, and there are still two weeks left.’
The Ballon d’Or winner headed straight down the tunnel after managing just 27 minutes in PSG’s 2-1 defeat to their next-door neighbours Paris FC on Sunday evening
Dembele has been integral to PSG’s campaign, scoring 19 goals and registering 11 assists across all competitions, including seven goals in the Champions League
PSG had already wrapped up the title before facing Paris FC, although Enrique still named a strong starting XI featuring Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bradley Barcola and Dembele, perhaps with the intention of keeping fitness levels sharp ahead of the final.
Dembele has been integral to PSG’s campaign, scoring 19 goals and registering 11 assists across all competitions, including seven goals in the Champions League.
The current holders will look to defend their European crown against Arsenal in Budapest on Saturday, May 30, after seeing off Bayern Munich in the semi-finals.
Mikel Arteta’s side overcame Atletico Madrid to reach their first Champions League final since 2006. The Gunners are still chasing a first-ever title.
And PSG are not the only side sweating over Dembele’s condition, with Didier Deschamps also likely to be keeping a close eye on the situation ahead of the FIFA World Cup, which is now just 24 days away.
