Luis Enrique Hits Back at Ousmane Dembélé After Rennes 3–1 Paris Saint-Germain Defeat

Luis Enrique has responded forcefully to Ousmane Dembélé following the forward’s critical post-match remarks after Paris Saint-Germain’s 3–1 defeat to Rennes on Friday evening.

Despite dominating possession with 69 per cent at Roazhon Park and registering six shots on target from 17 attempts, PSG were undone by a disciplined and clinical Rennes side. The result has tightened the Ligue 1 title race and disrupted the champions’ momentum.

It marked PSG’s third league defeat of the campaign, opening the door for RC Lens to capitalise. A victory over Paris FC this weekend would be enough to send Lens to the top of the table.

In his post-match interview, Ballon d’Or winner Dembélé criticised his team-mates for what he described as a lack of desire, urging them to play for the club rather than for individual recognition if they are to secure major honours.

Although PSG have not matched the dominance of last season — when they secured four trophies, including a long-awaited maiden UEFA Champions League title — there is little suggestion of crisis. The Parisians have already lifted the Trophée des Champions, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup this term, while maintaining a 60 per cent win rate across 35 matches in all competitions.

Enrique Dismisses ‘Worthless’ Comments

The PSG manager rejected Dembélé’s criticism of individual egos and perceived shortcomings in collective spirit, describing the remarks as “worthless” and reiterating that no player is above the club.

Speaking candidly at his post-match press conference — after Rennes secured victory through goals from Musa Al-Taamari, Esteban Lepaul and Breel Embolo — Enrique declined to engage directly with his forward’s comments.

“The players’ statements after the match are worthless. Absolutely worthless. Neither are the coaches’ statements, but the players’ statements are worthless. I’m not going to answer any question from a player, any response from a player,” Enrique said, as quoted by Tribuna.

“I will never allow any player to be above the club. So, it’s clear. I am the person responsible for the team. I will not allow any player to think that he is more important than the club. Neither me, nor the sporting director, nor the president, nor the club.”

The Spaniard concluded:

“So, these statements are worthless. They are the result of anger after a match, and I think that’s clear. We have nothing to lose."

PSG’s Position Remains Stable

Since moving away from a policy centred on marquee signings towards a strategy focused on youth development and system-specific recruitment, PSG have enjoyed renewed stability and cohesion. The shift has reduced the influence of superstar figures in favour of a more collective structure.

Dembélé remains central to PSG’s attacking output, contributing 11 goals and seven assists in 24 appearances this season. However, he is supported by high-calibre team-mates, including Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué and Vitinha, all of whom continue to make significant contributions.

While Dembélé’s comments appeared to reflect immediate frustration rather than deeper unrest, similar public remarks have previously unsettled the club. Nevertheless, PSG’s current position suggests the situation should remain under control, provided the squad responds positively and refocuses on their domestic and European objectives.