In a dramatic UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on April 29, 2025. However, the triumph was overshadowed by injury concerns surrounding star forward Ousmane Dembélé, who was forced to leave the pitch due to a muscular issue.
Dembélé, who had given PSG the lead just three minutes into the match, was a pivotal figure in the game until his unfortunate exit. The Frenchman’s goal not only set the tone for the match but also showcased his remarkable form this season, where he has been instrumental for the Parisian side, scoring 34 goals and providing 11 assists across all competitions.
After a strong start, Dembélé’s night took a turn for the worse in the 70th minute. Initially, he had shown signs of discomfort in the 60th minute but continued playing. Just eight minutes later, he collapsed onto the pitch, visibly distressed, prompting coach Luis Enrique to substitute him with Bradley Barcola. The substitution raised immediate concerns among fans and teammates alike, as Dembélé had been in excellent form leading into this critical stage of the tournament.
Speaking after the match, coach Luis Enrique addressed the injury, stating, "I think it’s not serious. Tomorrow he will undergo tests, and we will inform you accordingly. He will likely be doubtful for the return leg, but we hope for good news." This statement provided some reassurance, yet the uncertainty surrounding Dembélé’s fitness for the second leg on May 7 at the Parc des Princes looms large.
Achraf Hakimi, Dembélé’s teammate, also weighed in on the situation, expressing optimism about the winger's condition. "I spoke with Dembélé, and he seems fine. I believe it was just a bit of fatigue. He should recover well," Hakimi noted, providing a glimmer of hope for PSG supporters.
In terms of statistics, Dembélé had a notable impact on the match before his injury. He recorded one shot on target with an expected goals (xG) value of 0.09 and completed 20 of his 26 passes, demonstrating his involvement in PSG's attacking play. Despite the setback, his contributions were vital in helping PSG maintain their lead in the tie.
As the team prepares for the return leg, the stakes are higher than ever. PSG is not only looking to secure a place in the Champions League final but also aims to achieve a treble this season, with the Coupe de France final also on the horizon. If Dembélé is unable to feature in the second leg, it would undoubtedly be a significant blow to the team’s ambitions.
The victory in London puts PSG in a favorable position, but the uncertainty surrounding Dembélé’s health could alter their strategy moving forward. With a crucial week ahead, the club will be anxiously awaiting the results of his medical examinations.
Should PSG advance to the final in Munich on May 31, Dembélé would have a month to recover if his injury is not severe. However, the immediate focus remains on the upcoming match against Arsenal, where they will seek to capitalize on their slim advantage.
As fans and analysts alike speculate on the implications of Dembélé’s injury, one thing is clear: PSG’s hopes for European glory hinge not only on their current form but also on the fitness of their star players. The next few days will be critical in determining the team’s path forward in this high-stakes tournament.
