“When used properly, he could become the best player in the world.” Former Barcelona coach Xavi made this statement in 2021, a belief Dembele had heard repeatedly throughout his career. Some doubted the mercurial Frenchman could reach such heights after joining Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund for £135.5m in 2017, making him the second most expensive player in the world.
After years of setbacks from injuries, inconsistency, and questions about his attitude, Dembele, now 28, has finally fulfilled that promise by winning the Ballon d’Or, a trophy he long dreamed of. In Paris, he broke down in tears while thanking his family, reflecting the struggles and sacrifices behind his journey.
A Breakthrough Season at PSG
Dembele’s 2024-25 campaign propelled Paris Saint-Germain to a treble, winning Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the Champions League, and reaching the Club World Cup final. He scored 35 goals and provided 14 assists across all competitions. After a quiet start, he became Europe’s most in-form forward from midseason onwards.
His achievement surpasses notable competitors, including Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe, and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Dembele’s transformation started at Barcelona years before his PSG move, but joining the French club gave him the platform to become a star. Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid cleared the path for him, as manager Luis Enrique encouraged him to score more and embrace a bolder, more selfish role. The staff consistently reminded him, “Ballon d’Or, Ballon d’Or, Ballon d’Or.”
How Dembele Thrived After Mbappe Left
PSG signed Dembele for £43.5m in August 2023. He scored six goals and made 14 assists in his first season, helping PSG win the league and cup double, but Mbappe remained the main figure, scoring 44 goals in his final season for the club. Once Mbappe departed, PSG needed a new leader. Dembele stepped into that role with impact.
He recorded 51 goal involvements—more than double his career best—and 35 goals, 21 more than he had ever scored before. Enrique encouraged him to adopt a more direct approach, blending his assists with more finishes. Coaches privately emphasized that converting his chances could lead to team success and individual honors. Dembele embraced the role and excelled in his new tactical responsibilities.
Previously confined mostly to the right wing, he now operates as a false nine, receiving the ball more, joining the build-up, and finishing with greater freedom. A new role allowed him to maximize his talent.
Overcoming Injuries, Attitude, and Inconsistency
Mbappe’s move alone cannot explain Dembele’s rise. His time at Barcelona included 14 muscle injuries, keeping him out for 784 days. Concerns about discipline prompted the club to assign private chefs, while gaming and late nights affected his punctuality, making him one of the most-fined players in recent history. Even so, his explosive pace and dribbling often turned matches in Barcelona’s favor.
Those closest to him say Dembele matured after marrying his girlfriend Rima in Morocco in December 2021 and soon becoming a father. The wedding surprised teammates, who had little knowledge of his private life. The last two seasons at Barcelona marked a personal transformation, where he embraced fatherhood and professional responsibility.
Dembele committed to physiotherapy, preventative treatments in France, and a healthier lifestyle with the guidance of a nutritionist. These changes enabled him to maintain consistency and perform at the highest level.
From French Talent to Global Superstar
Many believed a Champions League win at PSG would depend on a French star, and that player would become the best in the world. That prediction proved true—but not for Mbappe. Dembele’s renewed focus, discipline, and determination allowed him to achieve the success and recognition he long promised. His journey demonstrates that talent alone is never enough; growth, opportunity, and resilience shape legends.
