Dembélé on being a role model: everyone has their own path

In partnership with

Parisfans.fr

·11 septembre 2025

Dembélé on being a role model: everyone has their own path

Ousmane Dembélé, 28-year-old forward for Paris Saint-Germain and the French National Team, has won the 2025 Onze d’Or. He then gave a lengthy interview to Onze Mondial, during which he was notably asked about the idea of being a possible “role model.”

Dembélé: “You can’t always imitate your favorite players”

“Many young people identify with you, look up to you, and love watching your videos. Are you aware of that? I’m somewhat aware, especially in my hometown, Évreux, because I get feedback from those around me. Outside of that, I’m not too sure. But already, it makes me happy. Then, as I often say, everyone has their own career, everyone has their own destiny. You can’t always imitate your favorite players; otherwise, everyone would have wanted to be Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi. Of course, we can be sources of inspiration. But you must never forget: everyone has their own destiny. You still have an important role, because many young people are fans of yours. That’s a reality that can’t be denied, right? Obviously, we always try to set an example, to give our all every day, to convey emotions, positive vibes to all the people who watch us.”

Of course, being seen as a role model can be rewarding. Dembélé isn’t going to reject this image, and he knows he’s inevitably watched given his place at PSG and on the French National Team. There’s a duty to set an example, because they can influence other people—including young people and children.

Vidéos OneFootball

But the 28-year-old forward doesn’t forget an essential point: everyone must also build themselves, both as a player and as a person. You shouldn’t lose yourself and try to absolutely imitate someone else, even if there can be inspiration. It’s a beautiful message from Paris’s number 10, who once again shows his great mentality. We love having this kind of player shining in football.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.