An absence that raises eyebrows

Despite being one of Paris Saint-Germain’s most explosive players, Ousmane Dembélé has barely featured in the Club World Cup. He didn’t play in the group stage and only got a few minutes in the Round of 16 against Inter Miami. His lack of playing time could be due to various reasons, but many speculate it’s a tactical decision by Luis Enrique.

Tactical decision or injury precaution?

According to the coaching staff, Dembélé hasn’t been in optimal condition, which is why he’s been kept on the bench for tactical reasons. The French forward suffered a muscle injury almost a month ago while on international duty, and Luis Enrique appears unwilling to take any risks with him.

The Spanish manager has instead turned to players like Désiré Doué, Bradley Barcola, and Gonçalo Ramos, none of whom have managed to replicate Dembélé’s spark—particularly when it comes to scoring.

Numbers don’t lie

PSG knows exactly what they’re missing without their No. 10: pace, unpredictability, goals, and relentless pressing. Dembélé fits perfectly into the “false nine” role Luis Enrique favors—able to drop deep, create midfield overloads, and burst into the box with speed.

Though he hasn’t scored since April 29, Dembélé has 33 goals and 15 assists so far this season, making him one of the most impactful players in European football.

But beyond the stats, his absence has been felt on the pitch: the 1-0 loss to Botafogo and a lackluster 2-0 win over Seattle exposed a PSG lacking depth and creativity—something Doué, Barcola, and Ramos have yet to solve.

A change against Bayern Munich?

The upcoming clash with Bayern Munich will be PSG’s toughest test yet. In that context, bringing Dembélé back into the starting XI could prove decisive. If Luis Enrique gives him the nod, his ability to break lines and connect in attack might just tip the balance in a do-or-die semifinal.