Dembele dismisses Mbappe absence claims: PSG's Champions League quest beyond one Star

As Paris Saint-Germain meticulously fine-tunes its preparations for the colossal Champions League final clash against Inter Milan, winger Ousmane Dembélé has stepped into the spotlight, not just for his electrifying form, but for firmly shutting down a lingering narrative: the idea that PSG might actually be a better team without the departed superstar Kylian Mbappe. His comments highlight a unified dressing room and a club determined to carve out its own legacy, even as the shadow of its former talisman looms large.

Dembélé, a player who has often operated in Mbappé's considerable shadow, offered a staunch defense of his former teammate. "No, we are not better without Kylian," Dembele asserted, directly addressing the murmurs that have circulated since Mbappé's highly anticipated move to Real Madrid. He went further, suggesting that with Mbappé still in the ranks, PSG "might have been even better." His words speak volumes about the respect within the squad for Mbappé's talent, even as they acknowledge his long-held ambition to play for the Spanish giants. This isn't a team reveling in the absence of a dominant figure; it's a squad that has recalibrated and thrived, collectively.

Indeed, PSG's season has been nothing short of stellar, proving that the club's ambitions stretch far beyond any single player. Under the astute guidance of coach Luis Enrique, the Parisians have already clinched the Ligue 1 title with comfortable authority and hoisted the French Cup, demonstrating their domestic dominance. Now, with the Champions League final within reach, they stand on the precipice of a historic "triplete" – a treble of major trophies that would solidify their place as one of Europe's elite.

Dembélé himself has been a central figure in this collective resurgence. His decision to depart Barcelona for Paris raised eyebrows in some quarters, but he has emphatically vindicated the move. Throughout the campaign, his explosive pace, dazzling dribbling, and improved end product have been instrumental. His contributions in terms of goals and crucial assists have showcased a player who has found consistency and confidence, becoming a linchpin in Luis Enrique's dynamic attacking setup.

The potential Champions League triumph would also hold significant personal meaning for Luis Enrique. Should PSG emerge victorious against Inter Milan, it would mark the second "triplete" of his coaching career, mirroring his sensational achievement with Barcelona during the 2014-15 season. This speaks to his tactical prowess and his ability to mold star-studded squads into cohesive, trophy-winning machines, capable of adapting to different personnel and challenges.

Ultimately, Dembele's comments serve as a powerful reminder that football is a team sport. While individual brilliance can ignite moments, sustained success often hinges on collective unity, tactical cohesion, and a shared purpose. PSG's journey to the Champions League final, marked by Dembélé's unselfish play and eloquent defense of a former teammate, embodies a new chapter for the Parisian giants. It's a chapter where the collective dream of European glory is pursued with unwavering belief, proving that even without a generational talent, the hunger for success burns brighter than ever.