David Ngog, former striker for Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool, among others, was invited by Le Parisien to comment on the development of his counterpart Ousmane Dembélé (28 years old), having crossed paths with the current international player when he was just starting his career.
Ngog: “You can tell he can make the difference.”
“Impressed by his development?
I met him when I was playing for Reims and he was playing for Rennes. He was already just as fast with his right foot as with his left. In one-on-one situations, he’s formidable. He’s continued to improve physically, he’s matured, and today he’s at the peak of his powers.
He dominates in the league and is proving decisive in the Champions League. Every time he touches the ball, you can tell he can make the difference. That’s the mark of truly great players.”
Of course, Dembélé commands admiration. He’s one of football’s “magicians,” capable of creating surprising moments almost anytime. It’s not all the time, of course; it’s still football. But he’s certainly capable of those decisive plays that leave a lasting impression.
This is all the more impressive now, given that he’s a player who has often had to contend with injuries and a frustrating lack of finishing in front of goal. It was difficult to imagine him improving in these areas, but the turning point came at PSG. Partly, certainly, thanks to coach Luis Enrique and the staff, with his successful move to the center of the attack. It’s one of the biggest coups in football in recent years. But we shouldn’t underestimate Dembélé’s work, of course.
