Star of Paris Saint-Germain’s victorious European campaign, 28-year-old striker Ousmane Dembélé gave an interview to France Football. Dembélé touched on a number of points, including the emergence of 20-year-old midfielder Désiré Doué, who enjoyed a stunning first season in a Parisian shirt.
Dembélé “He’s very professional, intelligent and serious”.
Does Doué remind you of Lamine Yamal, whom you saw arrive in the pro squad at Barça?
“Frankly, they’re both equally strong. Lamine Yamal, everyone was already talking about him at a very young age in Barcelona. When he turned professional, we realized he was exceptional and he took on another dimension. In training, he dribbled, he scored and he scored too.
Talking about Désiré, his integration wasn’t easy at first, he had to assimilate a new philosophy, and then, little by little, he completely exploded. He’s very professional, intelligent, serious and a good listener. He’s going to go very far, because he also has an incredible entourage. His father is a very interesting person, he has a lot to tell.”
You only have to listen to interviews with Désiré Doué to see that he’s a very intelligent player. Today, in addition to talent, you need intelligence and maturity to reach the top level and stay there. At just 20 years of age, Doué will also have to manage his success, which is not always easy.
We all remember certain players who emerged at a very early age, only to become a shadow of their former selves, drowned in an oversized ego. Well surrounded, the Parisian midfielder should see a different future. But next season will be just as important for him, as it will be the season of confirmation, but also potentially that of the 2026 World Cup with the French national team.
