Luis Enrique defends Ousmane Dembélé as brilliant for France

In the cramped press room at the Parc des Princes on Friday, Paris Saint‑Germain manager Luis Enrique praised France winger Ousmane Dembélé, calling the Ballon d’Or winner “brilliant” despite a troubled recent gathering with the national side. He made the remarks during a post‑match conference after France’s lacklustre displays against Turkey, Italy and Belgium.

Public defence of a star

Enrique reiterated his habit of publicly defending his players, insisting that the Ballon d’Or winner had been “brilliant” in his recent meetings with the Bleus. He told reporters, “I am not in agreement with the criticism; for me, he was brilliant as usual.”

The winger featured centrally against Turkey on 25 September and Italy the previous Friday, yet failed to light up the game. Shifted to the right wing versus Belgium on Monday, he again missed his impact despite wearing the captain’s armband in Mbappé’s absence.

After the 1‑1 draw with Italy, new France manager Zinédine Zidane also defended Dembélé, saying, “I found him good in both matches he started.” He added that Dembélé moves a lot, leaves his position and that the coach sees little to reproach.

Luis Enrique defends Ousmane Dembélé as PSG plan his rest for the Mans clash

In the opening phase of the season, Dembélé has taken part in seven PSG matches across all competitions, contributing two goals and four assists. The French forward’s involvement has been a key talking point despite the mixed on‑field displays.

Rest period and Champions League preparation

Enrique announced a collective “rest period” for Dembélé and teammate Nuno Mendes, confirming they will resume training on Saturday. He warned, “Vous devez vous habituer, ce sera quelque chose de normal cette saison,” urging the squad to adapt to the schedule.

Following the Le Mans reception on Saturday, Paris Saint‑Germain will travel on Wednesday to face Manchester City in the Champions League. The club hopes the brief pause will sharpen Dembélé for the European clash.

Ligue 1 doubts linger as Ousmane Dembélé rests for PSG’s Le Mans game

Enrique’s staunch endorsement underscores the manager’s confidence in Dembélé’s ability to influence PSG’s domestic and continental ambitions. The forward’s next performances will test whether the praise translates into tangible results for the French side.