Xavi Hernández Declares Ousmane Dembélé’s Ballon d’Or “More Than Deserved”
Former FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández has emphatically endorsed Ousmane Dembélé’s candidacy for the 2025 Ballon d’Or,citing the forward’s explosive form with Paris Saint-Germain and pivotal role in their Champions League triumph. The comments come as Dembélé enjoys a career-best season, fueling speculation he is a frontrunner for football’s most prestigious individual award.
Xavi, who coached Dembélé at Barcelona between 2021 and 2023, highlighted the player’s growth and happiness at PSG.”Ousmane is an extraordinary player, we knew that from the moment he arrived at Barcelona.” Xavi told Foot Market. “We saw his full potential, we worked a lot to make him feel pleasant and happy…Then the offer of Paris Saint-Germain arrived…and there it entirely exploded.” He further stated, “He is happy there, he feels like the star of the team, of the project. And what’s more, they won the Champions League were he shone with many goals and assists. He made the difference. he is an exceptional player, and the ballon d’Or is more than deserved.“
The former Barça boss also drew parallels between his own tactical approach at barcelona and that of current PSG manager Luis Enrique.”It is quite similar. Both want to have the ball, both want to be protagonists.” Xavi explained, noting Enrique’s relentless pressing style: “Luis Enrique…is a coach who does not conceive of withdrawal. He wants to squeeze and squeeze for 90 minutes.” He added that there is a resemblance between the playing styles of Spain, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain.
