Ousmane Dembélé Starts on the Bench for PSG in Crucial Champions League Clash Against Arsenal

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will face Arsenal in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal at the Emirates Stadium on May 7, 2025, with a notable absence in their starting lineup: Ousmane Dembélé. The French winger, who made a significant impact in the first leg, has been named among the substitutes due to a minor hamstring injury, a decision that could shape PSG’s approach in this high-stakes encounter.

Dembélé’s absence from the starting XI comes as a precautionary measure, according to reports from PSG’s camp. The 27-year-old sustained the injury shortly after scoring a crucial goal in the first leg, which ended in a 1-1 draw at the Parc des Princes. His dynamic performance in that match, where he showcased his pace and flair, had given PSG hope of overturning Arsenal’s slight edge in the tie. However, manager Luis Enrique has opted to err on the side of caution, prioritizing Dembélé’s long-term fitness over risking further injury in this pivotal game.

The decision to bench Dembélé is a significant one for PSG, who are aiming to reach their second Champions League final in club history. The former Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund star has been a key figure for the Parisian side this season, contributing goals and assists while forming a potent attacking trio alongside Kylian Mbappé and Gonçalo Ramos. His ability to stretch defenses and create opportunities has been vital to PSG’s European campaign, making his absence from the starting lineup a potential blow.

In Dembélé’s place, Luis Enrique is expected to deploy Bradley Barcola on the right flank, with Mbappé likely shifting to a more central role. Barcola, a young and versatile forward, has shown promise but lacks the experience and unpredictability that Dembélé brings to the table. PSG will also rely on the creativity of Vitinha in midfield and the defensive solidity of Marquinhos to contain Arsenal’s attacking threats, including Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, who were dangerous in the first leg.

Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, will look to capitalize on their home advantage and the absence of Dembélé to secure a spot in the final. The Gunners, who have been in scintillating form in the Premier League and Europe, are buoyed by their resilient performance in Paris. A goal from Gabriel in the first leg gave Arsenal a valuable away goal, but they will need to be wary of PSG’s attacking firepower, even without Dembélé starting.

For PSG, the tie remains finely balanced. A score draw of 2-2 or higher, or an outright victory, would see them advance to the final in Munich. However, a low-scoring draw or a defeat could spell the end of their European dreams for another season. Luis Enrique’s decision to rest Dembélé may also signal his confidence in the squad’s depth, with the possibility of the winger making a decisive impact as a substitute in the second half.

As the footballing world turns its attention to North London, all eyes will be on whether PSG can overcome the challenge of Arsenal without one of their star players in the starting lineup. Dembélé’s potential cameo off the bench could yet prove to be a game-changer, but for now, PSG must navigate the early stages of this blockbuster clash without their talismanic winger.

The match kicks off at 8:00 PM local time, with the winner set to face either Bayern Munich or Manchester City in the Champions League final.