Ousmane Dembélé set to return to PSG starting XI against Bayern Munich? | OneFootball

Ousmane Dembélé could be in line to return to the Paris Saint-Germain starting XI as the French champions face Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup quarter-final this Saturday (18:00 CET, Atlanta).

The 27-year-old winger made his comeback from a thigh injury last weekend in PSG’s 4-0 win over Inter Miami, playing 20 minutes off the bench. It was his first appearance since picking up a quadriceps lesion during France’s 2-1 win over Spain on June 6.

According to physical coach Alexandre Dellal, Dembélé has followed a strict recovery plan tailored by PSG’s medical staff in an interview with RMC Sport: “He needed to recover his ability to repeat high-intensity efforts and reach top speed. He’s right on schedule after three weeks out – the signs are good.”

Having used the start of the week to undergo extra treatment, Dembélé resumed full training with the group on Thursday morning. While Luis Enrique had refused to rush him back for the previous game in Seattle (2-0), the staff now view him as an option to start.

“He was a bit tired at the end but looked good overall,” said teammate Bradley Barcola after the Miami game. “It’s great to have him back.”

Asked whether Dembélé could start against Bayern, Dellal added: “I wouldn’t be surprised. He could start, or play 30 to 45 minutes. With a full week of training, it’s the perfect timing.”GFFN | George Boxall