Having started just three out of six Ligue 1 matches this season, Ousmane Dembélé (29) has seen the start of his 2026-27 campaign dominated by the management of his playing time. After appearing in each of France’s four matches in September, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner was rested by Paris Saint-Germain upon his return and missed last weekend’s home match against Le Mans (4-1).
This decision, criticised by some, prompted Dembélé – who scored against Manchester City (2-4) on Wednesday – to respond with a touch of irony. “After the international break, I went on holiday. In fact, I might just ask for another one…,” he quipped on Canal+. “On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, I really enjoy playing… Especially when I’m back from holiday!”
And with PSG set to travel to face RC Strasbourg Alsace this Saturday, Dembélé was once again in a playful mood, joking about the possibility of another holiday. “It’s possible,” he replied. “Until March, perhaps!”