Ousmane Dembele suffers injury before Arsenal Champions League final
Paris St-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele has been substituted with an apparent injury just 13 days before their Champions League final against Arsenal.
The France international was withdrawn after only 27 minutes during the club’s final Ligue 1 fixture of the season against Paris FC.
He was replaced by striker Goncalo Ramos and immediately headed down the tunnel to receive medical attention.
Precautionary measure or major blow?
Initial reports from France suggest the early substitution was merely a precautionary measure, although the true severity of the issue remains unconfirmed.
Losing the explosive attacker would represent a significant setback for head coach Luis Enrique following his outstanding contribution of three goals in the previous European round.
The former Barcelona winger has endured a frustrating campaign disrupted by several minor fitness issues.
Other fitness concerns for Enrique and Arteta
Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes and Willian Pacho are also nursing knocks for the French champions.
However, there is growing optimism in Paris that all three defenders will be available for the showpiece event against the Gunners.
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains hopeful that Jurrien Timber can return after a two-month absence.
“He’s progressed a bit in the last few days and we’re going to try to get him fit and available as quick as possible.”
Mikel Arteta
“He’s such an important player for us, and he’s doing everything that he possibly can to help the team in any capacity.”
Domestic title race takes priority
Before turning their attention to European glory, the North London side must navigate a tense Premier League title battle.
Arsenal host Burnley at Emirates Stadium on Monday night, knowing a victory will apply immense pressure on title rivals Manchester City.