Ousmane Dembele, the Ballon d'Or winner, is set to make his return to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after a six-week absence due to a hamstring injury. The news comes as a significant boost for PSG as they prepare to face Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Dembele sustained the injury on September 5 while representing France in a World Cup qualifying match against Ukraine. He was subbed in at half-time, but later had to leave the pitch in the 81st minute. Initial reports suggested he would be sidelined for approximately six weeks.
During his time off, Dembele underwent rehabilitation at a specialized clinic in Doha, Qatar. He has since returned to full training and is feeling good, although he missed PSG's recent 3-3 draw against Strasbourg. PSG coach Luis Enrique had said the club wouldn't take any risks with the players' health.
Prior to his injury, the 28-year-old winger was in impressive form, with two goals and one assist in PSG's 6-3 victory over Toulouse on August 30. His absence was felt by the team, which struggled to maintain the same level of fluidity and creativity in attack in recent Ligue 1 matches. Last season, Dembele made 53 appearances for PSG, scoring 35 goals and providing 16 assists.
In addition to Dembele's return, PSG captain Marquinhos is also back in the squad after recovering from a thigh injury. He had been sidelined since the game against Marseille on September 22. His return will provide much-needed stability and leadership to the defense.
However, PSG will still be without midfielders Fabián Ruiz and João Neves, who are both injured. Their absence limits PSG's options in midfield, requiring tactical adjustments from Enrique.
PSG has made a strong start to their Champions League title defense, winning their opening two matches against Atalanta and Barcelona. They are the defending European and French champions. Leverkusen, on the other hand, drew with FC Copenhagen and PSV Eindhoven.
Dembele's return provides a timely boost to PSG's attack as they aim for a third consecutive win in the Champions League group stage. The club will be hoping that he can quickly rediscover his form and help them continue their strong start to the season.
