Ousmane Dembélé is back, and not just to play. The unbalancing French forward is set to reappear this Sunday in the thrilling Round of 16 of the 2025 Club World Cup against Inter Miami. But his return isn't just any return; Dembélé lands on American soil with a clear and ambitious goal: to win the Ballon d'Or. After guiding Paris Saint-Germain to their historic first Champions League title, "the Mosquito" seeks to definitively settle the debate, solidifying himself as the best player on the planet on the club world stage.
The news of his return is a relief and a morale boost for PSG. The French international is completely recovered from his quadriceps injury in his left thigh. Although he didn't play a single minute against Seattle Sounders in the third group stage match, out of precaution, Dembélé feels "ready to compete again" and to show that he is at the peak of his form. His presence in the Round of 16 is a statement of intent from PSG, who know that with their star on the field, their chances of conquering the title multiply exponentially.
The Return of Unrivaled Talent: Dembélé at 100%
Dembélé's recovery is one of the best pieces of news for PSG and for football lovers.
- Full Recovery: The confirmation that he is "completely recovered from his injury" is fundamental. Physical problems have been a constant in his career, but this time, the care and precaution (like not playing against Seattle) ensure that he returns in optimal condition for the decisive stretch of the tournament.
- Tactical Decision: The decision not to rush him in the last group stage match was intelligent. Allowing him more time to recover and prepare ensures he will be fresh and ready for the challenge of a Round of 16 match, especially against an Inter Miami that, despite their recent defeat, always has Messi in their ranks.
- Immediate Impact: When Dembélé is in form, his impact is immediate. His speed, dribbling, attacking prowess, and vision make him a lethal weapon against any defense. His return is a direct threat to Inter Miami and any future opponent.
The Ballon d'Or: A Fixed Goal
Dembélé has not hidden his ambition, and the Club World Cup is his perfect stage to achieve it.
- Settling the Debate: For Dembélé, this tournament is more than just a club title; it's an opportunity to "definitively settle the debate about the Ballon d'Or." He believes his performances already position him as a serious candidate, and a great showing in the Club World Cup would be the final blow to convince voters.
- Historic Champions League Guide: The main argument in his favor is undeniable: he has "guided, with numbers and leadership, Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League in history." This achievement is monumental and by itself places him in the conversation of the best of the year.
- Numbers That Speak for Themselves: His statistics are impressive and demonstrate his direct influence on PSG's success. With 48 goal contributions across all competitions (33 goals and 15 assists), Dembélé has been a machine for creating danger and points. A "great end to the tournament" could "definitively catapult him towards the greatest individual distinction in world football."
The Immediate Challenge: Inter Miami and the Path to Glory
The match against Messi's Inter Miami is the first major step in his quest for the Ballon d'Or and the world title.
- A Grand Return: Facing a team with Lionel Messi in the Round of 16 is the perfect scenario for a stellar comeback. Dembélé will have the opportunity to shine in a high-profile match, where all eyes will be on him.
- Leadership Confirmed: Beyond goals and assists, the text highlights his "leadership" at PSG. This is crucial; Dembélé is not just a playmaker but a reference on the field, someone who pushes his team forward.
- PSG with Total Ambition: With Dembélé back and fueled by the recent Champions League triumph, PSG lands in the Club World Cup with the firm conviction of taking the title. The objective is clear: to be the best team in the world, and Dembélé is an irreplaceable piece to achieve it.
Expectation is at its peak. Ousmane Dembélé is not just back from injury; he's back with a mission. The 2025 Club World Cup presents itself as the ideal stage for the French forward to prove his worth and definitively launch himself towards the Ballon d'Or. His clash against Messi's Inter Miami is the first chapter of what promises to be a fascinating story in the pursuit of individual and collective glory. The football world is ready to see "the Mosquito" shine once more.