From Criticism to Glory 🚀
Just a few years ago, Ousmane Dembele was seen by many as a wasted talent. Critics pointed to missed practices and inconsistent form. Fast forward to today, and Dembele is holding the Ballon d'Or trophy—proof that hard work, focus, and a fresh mindset can rewrite any story.
The Turnaround Playbook 📋
- Next-Level Work Ethic: Dembele went from skipping sessions to arriving early for extra drills. He even uses a performance app and wearable tech to analyze sprints and track recovery.
- Mindset Makeover: Regular chats with PSG veterans like Lionel Messi helped him stay grounded. He learned to handle pressure and silence the noise on social media.
- Team Chemistry: Adapting to PSG’s star-studded lineup—linking up with Kylian Mbappé, fitting into tactical drills—was key to his new consistency.
PSG Treble & Ballon d'Or Glory 🏆
Dembele’s 25 goals and 15 assists this season powered PSG to a historic treble: Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and the coveted Champions League. His dynamic wing play and clutch finishes made him an undeniable choice for the Ballon d'Or.
Looking Ahead: Young Guns & Retro Debates 🔮
Meanwhile, all eyes are on 16-year-old Lamine Yamal and whether he could be the next youth sensation to challenge for football’s top honour. On the flip side, is it time for France Football to award Robert Lewandowski the 2020 Ballon d'Or retroactively? Let us know what you think! 👇
Stay tuned for more Sideline Story deep dives on the latest in football and beyond. 🎙️
Reference(s):
Redemption for Ousmane Dembele: From unprofessional to undisputed
cgtn.com
