Football

PSG coach explains decision to exclude Dembélé from Arsenal clash in Champions League

Kate Burt
Kate Burt

Paris Saint-Germain head coach, Luis Enrique, addressed the exclusion of midfielder Ousmane Dembélé ahead of their match against Arsenal in the second round of the Champions League group stage.

«If someone does not fulfil their obligations to the team and is not prepared [for the game]... This week is crucial. I consider this match important, so I want my players to be in the best shape. Hence, I decided to exclude him. It will be better for the team,» Enrique told RMC Sport.

Previously, reports indicated that a conflict arose between the forward and head coach Luis Enrique following the match against Rennes in the sixth round of Ligue 1. As a result, the coach decided not to bring the player to London.

PSG will face Arsenal away on Tuesday, October 1.