We can easily say that Ousmane Dembélé’s career is already well advanced and his progress impressive. But the 28-year-old forward for Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team told Onze Mondial that he still hopes to do more and fine-tune a few aspects — even though he’s already very satisfied.
Dembélé: “It’s still missing one or two options, but I’m almost there.”
“Back in 2018 you said: ‘Let’s say I’m a Ferrari under construction.’ Is the construction finished now?”
“I don’t exactly remember what I told you (smiles). In any case, what I can say is that the construction of the Ferrari had a lot of problems (laughs). Over the last four years I’ve worked incredibly hard. Today the Ferrari is in good shape — it’s not completely finished yet, it’s not full option yet (smiles). It’s still missing one or two options, but I’m almost there.”
Dembélé: “I’m happy and proud of my journey.”
“How do you view your career so far?”
“I’ve had a good career. I’ve learned a lot — a lot, a lot — especially during my years abroad. That’s what a football career is about; it’s not just good times. I’ve been through tough moments, but they helped me grow, both as a player on the pitch and, above all, as a man.
I’m happy with everything I’ve experienced so far. I’m only 28, but if I had to take stock right now, I can say I’m happy and proud of my journey. I hope it continues like this for me because I’m on a good path and everything’s going well.”
Dembélé: “How could I not be happy?”
“Did you imagine your career turning out like this?”
“No, I didn’t imagine it like this, but in football there are a lot of changes and things can move very fast. You’re not always in control of your destiny… many things can happen. But once again, I’m proud of my journey and of everything I’ve achieved. I’ve just won the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, a French club — it’s historic. How could I not be happy?”
Dembélé rightly points out that he has already achieved a lot and has every right to be pleased with his career. But what stands out is also his determination and his high standards. The French international still wants to improve and continue winning titles.
It’s fair to wonder which specific areas he’s thinking of for further progress — perhaps a little more sharpness in front of goal? More precise passing? There’s always room to get better, and coach Luis Enrique likely has his own ideas for PSG’s No.10.
Either way, it’s far too soon for Dembélé to stop. Both he and PSG know it. The desire to keep pushing and do even more is still there — and it will be exciting to see what comes next for Dembélé and for Paris.
