Luis Enrique Lauds Ousmane Dembele's Stellar Performance Ahead Of PSG's Champions League Opener

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Paris Saint-Germain's forward Ousmane Dembele received high praise from Luis Enrique after his two goals helped maintain the team's perfect record in Ligue 1. Dembele scored twice, with Fabian Ruiz adding another goal in PSG's 3-1 victory over Brest on Saturday. This win came despite Romain Del Castillo's early goal for Brest.

Dembele has already matched his goal tally from last season, scoring three goals in just four league matches compared to 26 games last season. Notably, he has scored two headed goals this season, equalling his total from 211 previous league games. On Saturday, he led the team with five shots on target and 12 touches in the opposition box, with an expected goals (xG) tally of 0.76, second only to Marco Asensio's 1.08.

"I didn't realise he scored two goals; it was a difficult match against a tough team," said Luis Enrique. "The least important thing is that he scored two goals; we had many chances for several players to score."

Luis Enrique expressed his long-standing admiration for Dembele, highlighting his versatility and intelligence on the field. "I've been a Dembele admirer for many years; he's a different player," he said. "He comes out on the left and on the right, he has a change of pace, he's intelligent."

Enrique also emphasised the privilege of having such quality players in his squad. "When you are lucky enough to have players of the quality I have, it's a pleasure and a privilege," he added.

Preparing for Champions League

PSG will begin their Champions League campaign on Wednesday when they host Girona at Parc des Princes. Luis Enrique took advantage of the match against Brest to rest key players like Marquinhos, Asensio, and Achraf Hakimi ahead of their European fixture.

"Versatility is what makes this squad; of course you miss some players," said Enrique. "But I have seen the same ability to play; we are a young team full of desire and hunger."

Squad Depth and Versatility

The coach praised other players who stepped up during the match against Brest. "[Lucas] Beraldo and [Milan] Skriniar were sensational," he noted. "Fabian is in great shape as last season and at the Euros; Lee Kang-in was superb; Joao Neves great in attack and defence."

Enrique feels fortunate to manage such a talented team and emphasised their collective ambition. "The goal is that everyone wants to keep winning titles," he concluded.