A Night of Redemption and Triumph

Paris Saint-Germain’s crushing 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the 2025 UEFA Champions League Final marked a historic moment in European football. This triumph not only secured PSG’s first continental title but also elevated winger Ousmane Dembélé to Ballon d’Or contender status. Manager Luis Enrique’s endorsement was unequivocal: “I’d give the Ballon d’Or to Mr. Ousmane Dembélé. The way he defended tonight... only that can be worth the Ballon d’Or. This is how you lead a team—goals, titles, leadership, defending, how he was pressing. Ousmane is my Ballon d’Or. No doubts at all.”

The Complete Player Evolution

Dembélé’s 33 goals and 15 assists across 49 matches this season redefine modern football excellence. Though he didn’t score in the final, his two assists and relentless pressing dismantled Inter’s defense. His all-around impact—defensive work rate, creativity, and Clutch Performances in knockout rounds—aligns perfectly with the Ballon d’Or’s emphasis on team success and Versatility.

Tactical Brilliance and Team Unity

Enrique’s strategy centered on high-intensity pressing and positional fluidity. A 4-3-3 formation with inverted fullbacks and midfield overloads dominated transitions, overwhelming Inter’s rigid tactics. Youngster Désiré Doué’s brace made headlines, but Dembé’s leadership remained the backbone of PSG’s performance.

Ballon d’Or Landscape Shifts

Dembélé’s case now overshadows rivals like Barcelona’s Raphinha and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, whose teams underperformed in Europe. PSG’s treble (Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Champions League) further strengthens his claim. The Ballon d’Or increasingly values holistic contributions in successful collectives—a criterion Dembélé meets decisively.

From Scrutiny to Supremacy

Acquired by PSG for €50.4 million in 2023, Dembélé faced early criticism for inconsistent form and discipline issues. Enrique’s “tough love” approach—benchings for key matches—sparked a resurgence. The 28-year-old responded with 15 goals in 10 league games, becoming the first player in Europe’s top leagues to contribute to 33 goals in 2025.

The Road to September’s Crown

As the football world anticipates the September 22 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Dembélé’s story—redemption, leadership, and trophy-winning consistency—resonates powerfully. Backed by Enrique’s unwavering support and PSG’s historic achievement, he stands as the clear frontrunner. Whether he wins or not, his 2024-25 season cements his legacy as a master of reinvention.

Keywords

Ousmane Dembélé | Paris Saint-Germain | 2025 UEFA Champions League Final | Luis Enrique | Ballon d’Or