Unrest is reportedly building at Paris Saint-Germain following their disappointing 3–1 defeat to Stade Rennais, a setback that saw the reigning champions surrender top spot in Ligue 1.
The loss has not only dented morale but also sparked internal friction, with manager Luis Enrique said to have taken decisive disciplinary action involving one of the club’s biggest stars, Ousmane Dembele.
Reports suggest the Spanish coach has left the winger out of the squad for an important upcoming European fixture against AS Monaco.
The tension reportedly stems from Dembélé’s candid remarks after the Rennes defeat. The French international, who has previously been recognized among football’s elite, openly criticized his teammates, accusing them of prioritizing individual moments over cohesive team play.
Such comments are believed to have unsettled Enrique, a manager widely known for enforcing discipline and unity within the squad.
According to insiders, the coach viewed the public criticism as counterproductive and quickly responded by excluding Dembélé from immediate match plans, reinforcing his philosophy that no player, regardless of stature, is above the collective identity of the club.
Enrique’s stance is consistent with his prior handling of high-profile situations. During the final phase of Kylian Mbappe’s time in Paris, the forward was periodically rotated or benched after making clear his desire to move on, before ultimately securing a transfer to Real Madrid CF.
That episode underscored Enrique’s willingness to make bold decisions to protect the authority of the institution, even when dealing with world-renowned talent.
Amid this latest controversy, speculation surrounding Dembélé’s long-term future has intensified. Media outlets in both England and France have linked him with a possible £95 million switch to Manchester United.
The Premier League side, now influenced by minority owner Jim Ratcliffe and guided on the pitch by Michael Carrick, are reportedly assessing attacking reinforcements ahead of the next campaign.
United’s reported interest appears to be connected to uncertainties within their current squad, including questions over Antony’s long-term impact and injury concerns involving Patrick Dorgu.
Dembélé is seen as a potential headline signing capable of adding pace, creativity, and unpredictability to Carrick’s evolving tactical framework.
Some sources even suggest that preliminary discussions over personal terms on a five-year agreement may already be underway.
For PSG supporters, the unfolding drama feels reminiscent of previous high-profile departures. The exits of Mbappé and earlier turbulence involving Neymar have shaped the club’s recent narrative.
Despite contributing 11 goals in 24 appearances this season, Dembélé’s rapport with Enrique is reportedly strained, with some insiders describing the relationship as difficult to mend.
Carrick has so far declined to comment publicly on the rumors, focusing instead on his team’s domestic ambitions.
Nevertheless, quiet discussions behind the scenes in Paris suggest this situation could intensify once the transfer window reopens.
Whether Enrique’s firm approach restores discipline or hastens another marquee departure remains uncertain, but PSG once again find themselves navigating the complex balance between authority, aspiration, and managing elite personalities.
