Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembélé has returned to the first-team squad ahead of their Champions League encounter against Bayer Leverkusen in Germany on Tuesday, marking a significant boost for coach Luis Enrique, whose side has been hit by multiple injuries this season.
Dembélé, 28, has been out for six weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury while on international duty with France in early September. The Frenchman spent part of his recovery at a specialist clinic in Qatar and resumed full training last week.
Although he missed PSG’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Strasbourg on Friday, a club source confirmed that Dembélé has travelled with the squad to Germany. PSG also shared images of the winger training normally on Saturday, further fuelling optimism about his imminent return to action.
The reigning European and French champions also welcomed back forwards Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with the latter making a substitute appearance in the Strasbourg clash.
However, PSG remain without midfield duo Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves, both of whom are still recovering from injuries. Reports suggest that captain Marquinhos could be available after travelling with the squad.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Luis Enrique admitted uncertainty over the return dates for some players but stressed that the club was prioritising player welfare.
“I don’t know when the injured players will return. We don’t want to take risks with the players’ health,” the Spanish coach said.
PSG have made an impressive start to their Champions League title defence, with victories over Atalanta and Barcelona in their opening two group-stage matches. In contrast, Leverkusen have drawn against FC Copenhagen and PSV Eindhoven, setting the stage for a crucial showdown in Germany.
