Ousmane Demble Injury Report: Will the PSG striker feature in Ligue 1 clash against Strasbourg

Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League aspirations hang in the balance as fears mount over Ousmane Dembele’s fitness ahead of their semifinal second leg against Arsenal. The French forward, whose early goal handed PSG a crucial 1-0 advantage in the first leg, now faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring scare. With the Ligue 1 title already secured, PSG’s focus has shifted entirely to Europe—but will they risk Dembele in Saturday’s clash against Strasbourg, or prioritize his readiness for the blockbuster showdown with Arsenal?

Ousmane Dembele’s hamstring scare and PSG’s cautious gamble

Dembele sparked concern during PSG’s first-leg victory at the Emirates Stadium, subbed off in the second half after feeling discomfort. Post-match, the 27-year-old downplayed the issue:

“I felt a little something, but it’s okay.” Manager Luis Enrique, however, struck a more cautious tone: “It’s not serious, something very minor… but he’s probably a doubt for the second leg.”

Strasbourg sidelined for Champions League dreams

Despite PSG’s shock 2-1 league loss to Nice last weekend—where they fielded a full-strength XI—the club is now prioritizing Ousmane Dembele’s recovery. Reports from RMC Sport confirm he skipped Thursday’s training session and is unlikely to feature against Strasbourg. The decision is purely precautionary, aiming to maximize his availability for Wednesday’s decisive clash with Arsenal.

PSG’s calculated risk

League Luxury: With the Ligue 1 title secured, PSG can afford to rest key players.

Depth Test: Backup options like Gonçalo Ramos or Bradley Barcola may start against Strasbourg, offering squad players critical minutes.

Medical Vigilance: L’Equipe notes Ousmane Dembele won’t undergo scans unless discomfort resurfaces, reflecting the club’s confidence in his minor strain.

Arsenal’s uphill battle

The Gunners, fresh off Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph, must win by a goal in Paris to force extra time. Dembele’s absence would weaken PSG’s attack, but Enrique remains defiant:

“We’re a real team… If Ousmane can play, that’s better. If not, we’ll still compete.”

What’s Next for PSG?

All eyes are on Ousmane Dembele’s fitness updates early next week. PSG’s season hinges on balancing immediate European ambitions with long-term player health. For Strasbourg, Saturday’s match offers a chance to disrupt the champions’ rhythm, but for PSG, it’s merely a stepping stone toward a greater prize.

PSG stands 90 minutes away from eliminating a third Premier League giant this Champions League campaign, having already toppled Liverpool and Aston Villa. With or without Dembele, their clash with Arsenal will test their depth, resolve, and hunger to finally conquer Europe.