club world cup

Why isn’t Ousmane Dembele playing for PSG vs Atletico Madrid at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

Following PSG's triumph in Europe, the French club now sets its sights on the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Fans are eager to find out if Ousmane Dembele will be ready to play in the crucial showdown against Atletico Madrid.

Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Emirates Stadium on April 29, 2025 in London, England.
© Michael Steele/Getty ImagesOusmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Emirates Stadium on April 29, 2025 in London, England.

PSG will debut in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 against Atletico Madrid. The French side won the UEFA Champions League and now looks to close the season by claiming the world title. This game marks a chance to confirm their dominance on a global stage. On the other hand, Atletico hope to take a major step forward by winning a title that supports their long-term project in Europe. Although the match is important for both teams, much of the spotlight is on Ousmane Dembele. Many wonder if he’s fit to start.

This one looks like a tough challenge for PSG. Diego Simeone is a true Atletico Madrid legend. He has left a lasting mark as both a player and a coach. However, his time in charge still lacks a major international or continental trophy. Because of that, the club invested heavily in Julian Alvarez, a World Cup winner with Argentina. He is expected to lead the attack now and in the future. As a result, fan expectations are higher than ever.

Paris Saint-Germain finally achieved European glory after years of trying. They won the UEFA Champions League behind the standout performance of Desire Doue. His rise has sparked excitement, as many believe he could become a global star.

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At the same time, Ousmane Dembele turned into a key figure for PSG. He evolved into a complete player in a false nine role and became the team’s main attacking force. For that reason, fans are eager to see him in the starting lineup at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

Ousmane Dembélé in 2023

Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan at Parc des Princes on October 25, 2023.

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Will Ousmane Dembele play against Atletico Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

Ousmane Dembele will miss PSG’s game against Atletico Madrid since he suffered a muscle injury during the UEFA Nations League semifinals with France. Because of this, several media outlets report he could miss the entire group stage. However, the French side have not released any official update on the injury’s extent. Therefore, he could return earlier—or later—than expected.

PSG vs Atletico Madrid: Confirmed lineups for Matchday 1 of FIFA Club World Cup 2025

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According to the French outlet L’Équipe, Dembele trained individually with PSG on Saturday, June 14. This marks a positive step in his recovery. However, he has not yet joined group training. As a result, his absence from the match against Atletico remains likely.

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Ousmane has managed his injuries better since arriving in Paris. Still, it seems unlikely that Luis Enrique will risk him for a group stage match. The coach would rather avoid losing him for a longer stretch of the season. Given his injury history, PSG will likely take a cautious approach to his recovery.

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