Arsenal face Champions League blow as PSG receive huge boost ahead of second leg
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal could be dealt a major blow ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), with reports in France suggesting that Ousmane Dembélé is on track to return from injury in time for the clash at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday.
The French winger, who scored the decisive goal in PSG’s 1-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg, had been sidelined with a hamstring issue sustained during that match. His absence was felt during PSG’s shock 3-1 defeat to Strasbourg at the weekend, a result that exposed some vulnerability in Luis Enrique’s side.
However, according to L’Équipe, Dembélé has returned to training and there is growing optimism that he will be fit enough to feature in the return leg. The report suggests there is even hope that the 27-year-old could start the match, boosting PSG’s attacking options significantly.
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Dembélé has enjoyed a phenomenal season, contributing 33 goals and 12 assists across all competitions. His explosive pace and ability to break down defences make him one of PSG’s most dangerous threats — and a major concern for Mikel Arteta’s side as they look to overturn the first-leg deficit.
PSG forward Ousmane Dembélé could be available for selection against Arsenal on Wednesday (Image credit: Getty Images)Speaking after the injury last week, PSG head coach Luis Enrique said: “Ousmane felt a slight discomfort. We don’t know how bad it is until the tests are done. We’ll try to have him ready for the second leg, but if he’s not, someone else will step in.” A club statement later confirmed that Dembélé had strained his right hamstring, but his recovery was “progressing well,” with further assessments scheduled.
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PSG are also sweating on the fitness of midfielder Lee Kang-in, who suffered a knock during Saturday’s loss to Strasbourg. The South Korean international was forced off before half-time after a heavy collision with Valentin Barco. He did not return for the second half and was replaced by Désiré Doué, casting doubt over his availability for the Arsenal match.
In addition, long-term absentee Presnel Kimpembe remains unavailable due to a bone edema in his right foot, with the defender still several weeks away from returning to action.
Despite the mounting injury concerns, the potential return of Dembélé provides a huge boost for PSG as they prepare to defend their narrow advantage over Arsenal and book a place in the Champions League final.
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