Ousmane Dembele is an injury doubt for PSG as they prepare for a huge second leg against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final.
It comes after the forward put in an exceptional display at the Emirates Stadium to sink the Gunners in the first leg.
A strike in just four minutes from Ousmane Dembele sent the French giants on their way, with PSG beating Arsenal 1-0 and taking an advantage with them to the Parc des Princes.
While Mikel Arteta has plenty to ponder when it comes to team selection and plotting a route to a comeback, it may not be so easy for his opposite number, Luis Enrique.
That’s due to a potential injury concern for Dembele, who is facing a race to get fit for the second leg against Arsenal.
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Former club doctor Serge Dubeau gives update on Ousmane Dembele injury timeframe
Dembele is facing a race to fitness as he appeared to pull up with a slight hamstring problem against Arsenal.
The PSG star, who played as a false nine through much of the game, caused problems for the Gunners by dropping into spaces in midfield.
Thierry Henry claimed Dembele’s withdrawal impacted PSG, with the last 20 minutes swinging in the favour of Arsenal.
While he now faces a race to fitness, former Bordeaux club doctor, Serge Dubeau, has explained the potential timeframe for the star.
Speaking to L’Equipe, he said if it is simply a cramp, then: “If the player is no longer in pain, he can resume [training] the next day.”
PSG have sent Dembele to get tested for the injury, making sure there is a proper diagnosis on the problem.
As for a potential grade one tear or strain, there is more fear over missing out against Arsenal, as Dubeau continued: “A strain is a minor muscle injury that affects the muscle’s structure. The damage isn’t very significant. We’re talking about grade 1.
“In terms of downtime, to give an imprecise range, it requires a rest period of ten to 15 days. A week? That’s close, very close.
“A muscle injury, even if there’s no major disruption, is still an injury. Those with hamstring injuries are more likely to re-injure themselves. If you start again too soon, it’s like any healing process; the tear risks getting bigger.”
It certainly suggests the potential of Dembele missing out, while anything larger than a grade one tear or strain will definitely keep him out of the match at the Parc des Princes.
It remains to be seen exactly what the issue will be for the forward and if he can return in time to take on Arsenal.
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Arsenal will be hopeful of Riccardo Calafiori injury return alongside Thomas Partey
If there is one thing Arsenal are boosted by in the second leg of the Champions League, it’s potential returns to the team.
Thomas Partey’s suspension proved costly in the first leg, but with that now served, he will be available once again.
That comes as a boost to the midfield options available, while there could be another big return in the backline.
Riccardo Calafiori’s latest injury has been a clear problem, with initial hope that he would be back against PSG in the first leg.
The Italian international could be gearing up for a place in the team for the second leg, which would add another option to the team.
Calafiori impressed against PSG during the league phase meeting and could soon recreate that impact.
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