Dembélé’s crucial fitness test ahead of the Champions League final

Ousmane Dembélé, recognized as the 2025 Ballon d’Or recipient, experienced a right calf injury during his club’s recent Ligue 1 fixture against Paris FC, which concluded in a 2-1 defeat on May 17. This past Friday, the football star was observed conducting individual running drills at the Puskas Arena in Budapest.

During a press conference held Friday afternoon, Dembélé was keen to alleviate any concerns regarding his condition. “I wasn’t afraid of missing this final,” he confidently stated. “I had ten to fifteen days to prepare for this ultimate match. Our coaching staff has managed the season exceptionally well. I feel completely ready, at 100%, and the entire squad is prepared. We have approached this encounter with a calm focus, and we anticipate a positive outcome.”

Despite his assurances, the French international felt compelled to conduct a personal fitness assessment just minutes later on the Puskas Arena pitch in Budapest. The 2025 Ballon d’Or winner engaged in several sprints while his teammates were engaged in shooting drills. These self-imposed tests appeared to have no adverse effects, as Dembélé subsequently rejoined the regular training session without any issues.