Enrique's genius idea helps Dembele flourish

Dembele has shone brilliantly this season. Photo: Reuters .

Montpellier coach Jean-Louis Gasset analyzed on April 5: "European teams have reason to worry because Dembele looks like a fighting machine. The coach and the player had great discussions. It's amazing, Dembele playing as a 'number 9' is an excellent idea. It's all thanks to the coach. PSG currently look invincible. They are superior to everyone."

This season, Dembele scored 32 goals in 39 matches in all competitions. Instead of playing on the wing, the French striker was pulled into the middle by coach Enrique and made a strong impression. The tactical adjustments of the former Barcelona coach worked, helping PSG win the 2024/25 Ligue 1 championship 6 rounds early.

The partnership between Dembele and right-back Achraf Hakimi has been crucial for PSG. Hakimi has often pushed forward, playing as a midfielder and actively crossing or passing to teammates. Dembele has benefited. Instead of drifting wide and disturbing the opposition defence, the former Barca man is now responsible for receiving Hakimi's crosses and converting them into goals.

Dembele plays like a real "number 9" at PSG. Photo: Reuters.

According to SkillCorner , the number of times Dembele has made a run to receive crosses has doubled compared to last season. In 2023/24, Dembele received just one cross or pass in 10 moves. Now, that number has halved.

From being an outsider, the French striker has unexpectedly broken through in this year's Ballon d'Or race. Dembele has been really serious this season and has received maximum support from his teammates.

Currently, Kylian Mbappe is still a strong candidate according to experts. However, like other faces including Raphinha or Lamine Yamal, Mbappe can only defeat Dembele convincingly if Real Madrid wins the Champions League.

Dembele and his teammates will continue their journey in the Champions League quarter-finals with a confrontation with Aston Villa on April 10 and 16.

Dembele's journey from the depths of Barca to the heights of PSG Dembélé was once doubted because of injuries and inconsistent form. But now, he is shining brightly at PSG, becoming one of the best players in the world.

Source: https://znews.vn/enrique's-idea-of-heavenly-fortune-helps-dembele-succeed-post1543754.html