If someone had told Ousmane Dembele at the start of the 2024/25 season that he would be playing as a centre-forward, finishing as Paris Saint-Germain’s top scorer — 33 goals in 46 games in all competitions — and Ligue 1’s leading marksman, all without spending much time in the treatment room, he probably wouldn’t have believed it. However, something magical happened, and this remarkable story of reinvention will go down in the Parisian club’s history books, whatever happens next. Dembele now faces three challenges as he looks to end this incredible season on a high and complete his fairytale story.
The first comes on 24 May, when he must help his side defeat Reims in the French Cup final. Seven days later, his sights will be set on securing UEFA Champions League glory against FC Internazionale Milano in the final in Munich. To cap it all, his club will take part in the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, which kicks off on 14 June in the United States.
Just under a month before Paris Saint-Germain take on Atlético de Madrid at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Dembele sat down with FIFA and didn’t hide his excitement at the prospect of playing in global showpiece.
FIFA: Are you excited for the new-look Club World Cup?
Ousmane Dembele: Yes! Plus, it’s in the United States, which is a beautiful country. I think this [Club] World Cup will be really special, as it comes just before the World Cup for the national teams. The [Club] World Cup is going to be massive and we can’t wait to get there.
What do you expect the atmosphere to be like in the USA?
I think the crowds will be lively. Everyone will come and watch the Club World Cup. We’re up against some great teams. We’ve got two matches in Los Angeles and another in Seattle. The whole team can’t wait, and I think it’s going to be great.
Would you say the clashes of cultures between the clubs is one of the biggest attractions of the competition?
Definitely! There will be a variety of football styles, including Botafogo in our group. We know a thing or two about Atlético de Madrid, but we’ve never played against Seattle (Sounders FC). The playing style won’t be the same. We can’t wait to be there and take on teams like these.
You will be playing in front of US fans who probably don’t get to see you except on TV. How does that make you feel?
It’s a nice feeling. We know there is a large PSG fanbase in the United States, so we’re looking forward to playing in front of them. Hopefully, they’ll spur us on to try and win that trophy, too.
What are your thoughts on facing Atlético de Madrid?
They’re a top team who are in great form this season. I think back to the match at the Parc des Princes, [a 2-1 defeat in the Champions League in November], and I believe we deserved to get something out of it. Things haven’t been going their way recently, with the team being knocked out of the Champions League and the Copa del Rey. That said, they’re a quality side and we’ll need to keep our guard up.
How far do you think you can go in this competition?
Just like we said at the start of the season, our goal is to win every trophy. Obviously, we know it will be difficult, as this competition is full of really strong teams. This first match will definitely be crucial. We’re going all out to win this trophy.
How do you personally explain your progress, and what is your next big goal?
As I often say, it’s really a team effort. The team make it much easier for me to score goals and provide assists. The more matches we play, the better we get, and I think my successful season is also down to the squad as a whole. I owe my current form to the team. My main focus is to win trophies with Paris Saint-Germain. Individual awards are just a bonus for me.
Do you feel like you are now in your prime?
I don’t know if I’m in my prime. I feel like I can still improve and so can the team. But, I do feel like I’m playing well this season. I’m much more clinical. It’s all because of my new role.
How much credit do you give to Luis Enrique for your transformation?
The coach has always believed in me since the day I arrived at Paris Saint-Germain. We spoke on the phone before I signed with the club. He shared his plans for me as a player. He has every bit of confidence in me, and I try to pay him back on the pitch.
Do you like American sports?
Yes, I follow the NBA closely. I don’t watch it live though because the matches are late.
Who is your favourite sports personality of all time from the States?
In the US, Michael Jordan is the greatest in my opinion. He has inspired generations, and as far as I’m concerned, he’s the best.
What do you like about him?
His leadership and all the trophies he has won. Everything he did for the [Chicago] Bulls. He was incredible. I also watched his series [The Last Dance]. I was only just born in 1997. I saw everything he did and was impressed.
Finally, if you could play a match with a legend, who would you choose?
I would say Zinedine Zidane because he is France’s greatest player of all time. He was technically gifted, and I believe he would have provided me with excellent opportunities. He was an outstanding player. Enditem
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