Ousmane Dembélé Left Out: PSG's Crucial Champions League Match Without Star Forward

On the eve of a crucial Champions League match against Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé was left out of the squad due to a lack of commitment, according to coach Luis Enrique. Enrique did not share detailed reasons but emphasized the importance of team unity and player availability.

On the eve of Paris Saint-Germain's biggest match this season, forward Ousmane Dembélé was excluded from the squad to face Arsenal in the Champions League, amid criticism for a lack of commitment.

"If someone does not comply with the requirements from the team, it means that they are not ready," PSG coach Luis Enrique stated on Monday, ahead of Tuesday's group match at Emirates Stadium.

"It's such an important week, with such an important game coming up, we need every player to be fully available," Enrique added. He was questioned during a news conference about Dembélé's absence in London after reports from L'Equipe newspaper and RMC Sport suggested that the decision was made despite Dembélé being fit. The reports indicated a verbal clash after PSG's 3-1 win against Rennes, where Dembélé provided an assist.

"There is just a problem of commitment toward the team, it's not a problem between the player and the coach," Enrique clarified through a translator.

PSG traveled to London with 22 players but without Dembélé, a key player in PSG's unbeaten start to the season with four goals and three assists in Ligue 1 matches. "I took the best possible decision," Enrique said, noting the club director's support for his decision.

PSG remains unbeaten in all competitions, having won against Girona in its Champions League opener while Arsenal drew with Atalanta 0-0. Enrique's alternative offensive options include Randal Kolo Muani and Désiré Doué. "Other players will be able to take over," commented PSG right-back Achraf Hakimi, emphasizing the unity and importance of the team as a group.

(With inputs from agencies.)