Ousmane Dembele has emerged as one of the standout players of the 2024–25 season, playing a pivotal role in Paris Saint-Germain’s success. With the club now one step away from UEFA Champions League glory, the French winger addressed his place in the Ballon d’Or conversation ahead of the final against Inter Milan.
The Champions League often plays a decisive role in the Ballon d’Or race, and with players like Raphinha, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal missing out on the final, Dembélé is widely seen as a top contender for the award. Still, the 27-year-old made it clear his focus remains solely on the team and the title.
Asked about his Ballon d’Or chances during Friday’s press conference, Dembélé didn’t hesitate. “When you are a PSG player, what’s important is to take home the silverware such as the Champions League. I am focused on the team, not individual trophies. It is in the back of mind, but I want to focus on the team,” said Dembele when referring to the Ballon d’Or.
Dembélé also spoke about the team’s transformation in the second half of the season, after nearly being eliminated in the league phase: “Since January, we have really had a change of mindset and we want to continue now and get the victory and we are very excited about the game.”
“Inter is a wonderful team that deserves to be in the final. They are physical, know how to defend, how to get up front, so we have a strong opponent. I’ve prepared well for this final. Since I was a kid, I’ve been dreaming of playing in this game,” he said, looking forward to playing the first Champions League final in his career.
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He then delivered a last message to the team regarding the approach of the game: “We have to remain concentrated on the game, on the team, on myself. I hope we’ll be able to produce a fantastic performance.” With kickoff approaching, Dembélé may be just 90 minutes away from lifting the biggest trophy in club football—and possibly securing his place as a Ballon d’Or frontrunner.
Dembele steps into leadership role at PSG
Following Kylian Mbappe’s departure at the start of the season, PSG were left without a clear talisman. That leadership void has since been filled by Dembele, who has not only elevated his game but has also embraced a central role under head coach Luis Enrique.
Speaking at the same press conference, Enrique was full of praise for his winger: “Dembele has been one of the best players of the season, if not the best one. He scores, he passes, he fights, he defends, and that’s the real mentality — that’s a leader.
“A real leader is the guy who shows with his example the way to go. It’s so nice for me to hear Ousmane, to give him confidence, to develop his qualities,” the coach ended. Whether or not Dembele takes home individual hardware at season’s end, there’s little doubt that he’s become the heartbeat of PSG—on and off the ball.
