Paris Saint-Germain secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final on April 29, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium, but the win came with concern for star forward Ousmane Dembele. Manager Luis Enrique confirmed in a post-match press conference that Dembele, who scored the decisive goal in the fourth minute, sustained a minor hamstring injury and is now a doubt for the second leg on May 7, 2025, at the Parc des Princes.
The French international, assisted by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia after a 26-pass build-up, was substituted in the 70th minute for Bradley Barcola, showing no immediate signs of discomfort. However, Enrique revealed to reporters, “I don’t know anything. The medical tests will take place tomorrow. It’s nothing serious, it’s quite minor, but there is a doubt for the return match.” Speaking to Canal+, he added, “We are a real team. If Ousmane can play, that is good. If he doesn’t, we will see a team,” emphasizing PSG‘s squad depth and resilience.
Dembele’s goal, his eighth in the competition this season and 33rd across all competitions, underscored his importance to PSG’s campaign, with only Robert Lewandowski, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe outscoring him in Europe’s top five leagues. His potential absence could force Enrique to reshuffle his attack, with players like Goncalo Ramos and Desire Doue likely to step up. Despite the injury concern, Enrique remains confident, noting PSG’s first-ever Champions League win over Arsenal and their ability to dominate early against a strong Gunners side.
The injury news offers Arsenal a potential boost as they aim to overturn the 1-0 deficit in Paris. However, PSG’s depth, bolstered by players like Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made key saves, and Joao Neves, who outshone Arsenal’s midfield, ensures they remain formidable. Posts on X reflect the uncertainty, with some fans speculating on Dembele’s recovery timeline and others praising PSG’s team cohesion. The second leg promises high stakes as Arsenal chase their first Champions League final since 2006, while PSG eye their maiden title.
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