Following Ousmane Dembele’s transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Barcelona for €148 million in 2017, projections quickly surfaced suggesting he would contend for the Ballon d’Or in the future and potentially break the dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
That prediction did not materialize fully. Recurring injuries hampered the France international’s ability to reach his anticipated potential at Camp Nou. After a period of six seasons, comprising 185 appearances and 40 goals scored across all competitions, Dembele transitioned to Paris Saint-Germain in a transfer valued at £50m.
Subsequently, the 28-year-old has experienced a resurgence in his career, contributing to PSG’s achievement of a domestic double during his initial season back in France. Furthermore, the team from Paris secured their inaugural Champions League title the previous season, in addition to a domestic treble.
Ousmane Dembele reflecting on his aspirations for the Ballon d’Or
The former player for Rennes played a central role in PSG’s accomplishments the previous year, registering 33 goals and providing 15 assists across 49 appearances. FourFourTwo recognized his contributions by ranking him third among the best strikers worldwide.
Dembele received the distinction of being named Ligue 1 Player of the Year and shared the title of top scorer in the competition with Mason Greenwood, contributing to a series of individual accolades.
As the 2025/26 season begins, Dembele is also regarded as a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or award this year.
“Regarding an individual honor, it represents the pinnacle for a footballer,” Dembele shared with FourFourTwo. “It is the ultimate recognition in football. Considering the legendary figures who have received it, it is truly remarkable.”
Leading up to the Champions League final, numerous members of the coaching staff, and individuals associated with the club, playfully teased him about the award, using it almost as a method to encourage him and instill belief in his capabilities.
“Individuals would notice me and call out my name, exclaiming ‘Ballon d’Or, Ballon d’Or!’ However, in reality, Luis Enrique, the staff, and all the players were primarily focused on the team, especially in relation to the Champions League final.”
Unbeknownst to Dembele, Luis Enrique and his coaching staff consciously implemented a strategy to ingrain the concept within his mindset from the beginning of the season, mentioning the Ballon d’Or at every possible instance. This served as an astute method to motivate him, amplify his self-assurance, and foster his belief that he genuinely warranted consideration for the award.
Dembele is aware that potential acknowledgment stems from tangible achievements. “Following a season of such caliber—encompassing four titles, scoring goals, and providing assists—it is justifiable to be regarded as a strong candidate for the honor.”
