From Barcelona bust to Ballon d’Or favourite, Ousmane Dembélé’s stunning PSG revival is powering a historic Champions League run, writes DYLAN JOHNSON.

Dembélé’s career at Barcelona was defined by missed potential. Signed for €135 million in 2017 to replace Neymar, he was one of the most exciting young players in the world. But his time in Spain ultimately became a cautionary tale.

Over six seasons at Camp Nou, Dembélé made 185 appearances — but missed 119 matches due to injury. He was unavailable for 784 days, the equivalent of more than two full years. For every flash of brilliance — especially during Xavi’s time as manager — there were long, frustrating spells on the sidelines. In the eyes of many Barcelona fans, the transfer had failed.

Now, in his second season back in France, Dembélé has rewritten that narrative entirely. Under Luis Enrique at PSG, he has produced the best season of his career — 46 goal contributions in 47 appearances across all competitions. That consistency, both in performance and availability, marks a clear break from his Barcelona years. Injuries have no longer defined him. Impact has.

Luis Enrique has been key to this transformation. The Spanish coach has given Dembélé a central role in PSG’s attack, often allowing him to drift inside and dictate play, rather than being restricted to the wing. It’s a system built to maximise his speed, vision and creativity — and for the first time in years, he has delivered from August to May.

Dembélé has also benefitted from a more structured midfield behind him. Vitinha, João Neves and Fabián Ruiz have given PSG control in possession and stability off the ball. That foundation has allowed the front three to thrive, with Dembélé emerging as the most influential figure in their European campaign.

PSG’s route to the Champions League final has included victories over the Premier League’s top sides — Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal, who had eliminated Real Madrid. At each stage, Dembélé played a major role, scoring crucial goals and providing decisive moments in tight games.

From €135 million signing to one of Barcelona’s most frustrating what-ifs, Dembélé’s story could’ve ended as another tale of wasted potential. Instead, his resurgence in Paris has flipped the script. He’s now a central figure in a team built to win, delivering in the biggest moments and staying fit when it matters most.

With PSG one win away from a first Champions League title, Dembélé’s turnaround is nearly complete. A player once known for his absences is now leading the charge — and the Ballon d’Or no longer feels out of reach.

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