Luis Enrique Revives Ousmane Dembélé at Barcelona

Ousmane Dembélé presented a markedly different demeanor under Luis Enrique at FC Barcelona. The change was displayed at the Champions League pre‑match press conference in Budapest’s Puskás Arena before journalists from around the world. Previously at Barcelona Dembélé’s gaze was described as lost and as if he floated between realities. Observers noted a childlike mentality that favored playing video games over treating his professional routine as a habit. The French forward was considered misunderstood on the pitch despite Barcelona having signed him as a genius. At the press conference Dembélé spoke in a calm, serene tone. He fixed his eyes on the audience and answered questions with the confidence of a sage. Luis Enrique is credited with altering Dembélé’s life beyond football. The transformation suggests Dembélé will play a key role in Barcelona’s upcoming Champions League campaign.