‘I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished’ – Ousmane Dembélé’s first words as Ballon d’Or winner | OneFootball

Ousmane Dembélé (28) has become the sixth different Frenchman to win the Men’s Ballon d’Or at Paris’ Théâtre du Châtelet this Monday. The 28-year-old PSG striker pipped Spain and Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal to the greatest individual prize in world football. PSG midfielder Vitinha has ranked third.

2005 Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldinho called up Ousmane Dembélé to the stage, and the France international winger has paid tribute to the Brazilian, who, like him, played for Barcelona and PSG. “For a football legend like Ronaldinho to give it to me is exceptional.”

“What I just experienced is exceptional“, Dembélé said. “I have no words. It’s been an incredible year with PSG.” The France international has won five trophies with Luis Enrique’s Parisiens, most notably the club’s maiden Champions League title after the most one-sided final ever against Inter Milan (5-0).

Dembélé has been prolific in his gratitude to PSG. “I want to thank PSG, which came for me in 2023.” The former Barcelona winger said that club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and head coach Luis Enrique were like father figures to him. “I also want to thank my teammates; we’ve won practically everything. You supported me, and this individual trophy really rewards the team.“

Dembélé also took time to thank his former clubs – Rennes, Borussia Dortmund and FC Barcelona – as well as the France national team’s players and coaching staff. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished (…). The Ballon d’Or wasn’t a goal in my career, but it’s exceptional.“

GFFN | Bastien Cheval