PSG suffers a double blow ahead of the Champions League

Paris Saint-Germain has just received some unfortunate news as two attacking stars, Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue, have both sustained injuries.

During the match between Ukraine and France in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, Dembele limped off the field due to a hamstring injury. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed that the winger suffered a serious injury and will require at least 6 weeks to recover. This means he will definitely miss the Champions League group stage opener against Atalanta on September 18, as well as the emotional away game against his former club Barcelona on October 2.

This is a significant loss for PSG, as Dembele is a key player in their wing attack strategy, having contributed greatly to last season’s Champions League campaign with his tricky dribbling and ability to create chances.

Not only Dembele, PSG also loses young talent Desire Doue. The 19-year-old was injured during the Ukraine vs. France match and had to leave the field in the second half. Diagnosis revealed a calf muscle strain, and he is expected to need about 4 weeks to recover.

PSG club issued an official statement on September 6:

“Ousmane Dembele has suffered a right hamstring injury and is expected to be out for 6 weeks.”

“Desire Doue has a right calf injury and will need approximately 4 weeks to recover.”

With this expected timeline, Doue will definitely miss the opener against Atalanta and his availability for the away match at Camp Nou remains uncertain.

Losing two players who shone in last season’s Champions League final against Inter Milan puts coach Luis Enrique in a difficult position. Besides European competition, PSG faces a congested Ligue 1 schedule with matches against Lens, Marseille, Auxerre, and Lille in September and October.

Despite having a deep squad, the absence of Dembele and Doue will reduce PSG’s attacking creativity, especially in crucial European fixtures. This is a critical phase where the capital club needs to maintain stability to defend their title.

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