Ousmane Dembélé has transformed into a prolific goal scorer this season, netting 26 goals in 33 matches and becoming PSG’s key player following Kylian Mbappé’s exit. His impressive performance includes 18 goals in 2025, making him the top scorer of the century for that timeframe. A tactical shift to a false number 9 role has allowed him to excel, with teammates recognizing his decisive impact. His resurgence has garnered attention ahead of an upcoming Champions League match against Liverpool, with potential Ballon d’Or discussions rising.
Ousmane Dembélé: A Transformative Season
Ousmane Dembélé has undergone a remarkable transformation this season, shedding the label of an inconsistent player to become a prolific goal scorer. Once criticized for his inability to convert chances, he now finds himself in the spotlight for his impressive performance on the field. Just a few months ago, he faced backlash for his lack of precision in front of the net, but that narrative has completely shifted.
With Kylian Mbappé’s departure from PSG, Dembélé has stepped into a leading role, showcasing his immense talent. This season alone, he has netted an astonishing 26 goals in 33 matches across all competitions, surpassing his previous best of 14 goals during the 2018-2019 season with Barcelona.
A Record-Breaking Performance
Among his 26 goals, 18 have come in the year 2025, positioning him as the top scorer for this time frame in the 21st century. Notably, even legendary players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi couldn’t match this feat during similar periods in their careers. Dembélé’s coach, Luis Enrique, humorously remarked about his incredible form, hinting at the secret behind his success.
Since being repositioned to play as a false number 9 around mid-December, Dembélé has truly flourished, scoring 21 goals in just 16 matches—which averages out to an impressive 1.31 goals per game. This tactical shift has allowed him to capitalize on his strengths, making scoring opportunities more accessible.
In his own words, Dembélé attributes his success to a combination of improved positioning and a newfound mentality. He is now driven to score and be a decisive factor in every match, which has clearly paid off. His teammates have also acknowledged his contribution, praising his ability to create danger and score goals.
As PSG prepares for an upcoming Champions League clash against Liverpool, the English press has taken notice of Dembélé’s resurgence. With his scoring prowess posing a significant threat, he is viewed as a key player to watch in the highly anticipated match. Various outlets have even suggested that he could be in contention for the Ballon d’Or, highlighting his remarkable season and the potential he is finally realizing.
In conclusion, Ousmane Dembélé’s evolution this season marks a significant chapter in his career, providing PSG with a new hope. His ability to step up in the absence of Mbappé has established him as a vital player, and fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this revitalized star.