Dembele’s Illness Clouds PSG's Metz Clash, Says Enrique
12 December 2025
Match preview and Dembele's condition
PSG head coach Luis Enrique discussed Ousmane Dembele's status ahead of the Ligue 1 clash with Metz on Saturday as part of Round 16.
Enrique told Le Parisien that Dembele's condition is unfortunate for both the player and the team. PSG remain confident they can manage the situation and get Dembele back to his best form as soon as possible.
He added that Dembele is still recovering from illness this week, and the coaching staff will be cautious about involving him in training and matches until he is fully ready.
Injury updates and transfer talk
When asked about captain Marquinhos' recovery from his latest injury, Enrique said he did not know when the defender would be back, but the situation is not worrying and his participation in the Confederations Cup remains undecided.
PSG also eye the Confederations Cup final scheduled for next Wednesday, with the winner of tomorrow's tie between Pyramids FC and Flamengo awaiting them in the competition's narrative context.
Enrique opened the door to potential January signings, saying he is open to any good option at a reasonable price, though recruitment is tempered by a strong academy presence at the club.
He concluded that the team is on the right track defensively and offensively, but injuries have been a strange issue this season, and they hope to be at full strength after Christmas.
Punchline: If injuries were players, PSG would have the strongest squad in the infirmary.
Punchline: Maybe the only thing growing in December is the medical staff's patience—and their coffee budget.