PSG get Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue boost as French duo near return from injury ahead of Strasbourg clash

The Ligue 1 champions have been battling an injury crisis that has disrupted their early 2025-26 campaign, but hope is returning. Ballon d'Or winner and French superstar Dembele, sidelined since early September due to a severe right hamstring injury, has resumed collective training after rehabilitation in Aspetar, Qatar. According to L’Equipe, the French winger could be back in the squad as early as Friday for the Ligue 1 home clash against Strasbourg. Meanwhile, Doue has also returned from a calf injury, while Fabian Ruiz remains protected after a minor muscle strain. 

While Dembele and Doue are close to full fitness, other squad members will need more time. Joao Neves continues his recovery from a thigh injury, and Bradley Barcola, sidelined due to persistent quadriceps pain, has not yet returned to full training. Youngster Senny Mayulu is expected back on Friday, though captain Marquinhos, recovering from a left quadriceps injury, is set to miss the Strasbourg game and the upcoming Champions League trip to Bayer Leverkusen. PSG’s medical team continues to monitor Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to prevent any setbacks following his recent international duty.

Despite the injury setbacks, PSG remain top contenders in Ligue 1, and after seven matchdays, the Champions League winners sit on top of the table ahead of Marseille with 16 points. Luis Enrique’s side have maintained a perfect 3-0 home record, with three clean sheets, matching their previous 16 home league games. Historically, Les Parisiens have never lost to Strasbourg at home, winning their last six encounters and scoring three or more goals in four of the previous five matches. This strong home form will be key as injured players return and reinforce the squad.

Strasbourg arrive at Parc des Princes with confidence, having won four of their five league matches prior to the international break. The club has shown attacking prowess, netting multiple goals in recent away fixtures while conceding minimally. The visitors have scored two or more goals in four of their last five competitive away matches, posing a tactical challenge for PSG. With Dembele, Doue, and Ruiz nearing full fitness, Enrique must balance returning stars while neutralizing Strasbourg’s dynamic attack.

The return of key players ahead of Strasbourg could mark a turning point in PSG’s season. With the international window closing, Enrique will have his top squad available to maintain Ligue 1 dominance and prepare for the Champions League trip to Leverkusen. If returning stars can regain form quickly, PSG could solidify their title credentials and preserve their unbeaten home record. Strasbourg’s challenge, however, means the French champions must integrate returning players seamlessly to stay on track in both domestic and European competitions.