Paris Saint-Germain will be without Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue for several weeks after both picked up injuries during France’s World Cup qualifying victory over Ukraine. Dembele faces an estimated six-week recovery from a serious hamstring issue, while Doue is expected to be sidelined for roughly four weeks, according to PSG.
The injuries occurred in Friday’s 2-0 win. Dembele had come on at halftime to replace the injured Doue but had to leave the field in the 81st minute due to his own setback. The timing is particularly inconvenient for PSG as the duo were key contributors to the club’s historic treble last season.
Champions League defenders awaiting return
The French champions are set to begin their defence of the Champions League on 17 September with a home match against Atalanta. Following that, PSG will travel to Spain to face Barcelona, one of last season’s semi-finalists, on 1 October. Both games now come with the challenge of missing two pivotal players.
Their absences could impact PSG’s attacking options, especially as Dembele is in contention for the Ballon d’Or, which is scheduled to be awarded on 21 September. His presence had been expected to provide an extra boost during these early-season European clashes.
Key players in treble-winning campaign
Dembele and Doue were instrumental in PSG’s remarkable 2024-25 campaign, helping the club secure Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Champions League. Doue particularly shone in the European final, scoring and earning man of the match honors in the 5-0 rout of Inter Milan. Their performances were later recognized as both were included in UEFA’s team of the tournament.
In domestic play, PSG have made a strong start to the season, winning all three of their opening Ligue 1 matches and sitting at the top of the standings. Their next league match after the international break will be against Lens, with hopes high that both Dembele and Doue can return to action soon to strengthen the squad further.
