PSG Get Key Boost as Ousmane Dembélé and Nuno Mendes Return to Training Ahead of Manchester City Clash
Paris Saint-Germain have received a significant lift in their preparations for the crucial Champions League match against Manchester City. Both Ousmane Dembélé and Nuno Mendes have returned to training after a planned rest period, rejoining the squad ahead of Wednesday’s showdown at the Etihad Stadium.
Star Players Back in Action for Luis Enrique
The arrival of these key players at the Campus PSG training center in Poissy boosts the team’s chances for the important fixture. Both had been resting following an intense international break to ensure they remain fit for the demanding autumn schedule.
According to L'Équipe, the club's medical and coaching staff carefully arranged their returns to manage fatigue. Dembélé resumed training on Saturday, while Portuguese international Mendes rejoined on Sunday, signaling that PSG will travel with a nearly full-strength squad.
Offensive and Defensive Impact Against Manchester City
The timing could not be better. While PSG have started their domestic season well, facing the Premier League champions presents a tougher challenge. Luis Enrique’s tactics rely heavily on Dembélé’s explosive speed on the right wing and Mendes’ overlapping runs on the left side.
Having both players fit provides the width and pace needed to test a City defense that struggles when opponents push the tempo and use quick transitions.
Managing Dembélé’s Stamina for High-Pressure Matches
The decision to rest Dembélé was more than just a break after international duty. The player himself noticed a drop in physical performance after 60 minutes in last season’s Champions League games. Recognizing this, PSG's staff aimed to keep him fresh so he can sustain high intensity for 60 to 70 minutes against Enzo Maresca’s team. This approach hopes to unleash his sprinting ability deep into the second half.
Squad Health and Injury Updates
Despite this good news, PSG will miss young midfielder Senny Mayulu for the Manchester trip due to a muscle injury sustained on international duty with France’s youth teams. Although it’s a setback, the overall fitness level in the squad is much better than in past seasons.
- Match: Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain
- Date: 14 Oct 2026
- Time: 22:00
