The Paris Saint-Germain striker propelled his team to a historic hat-trick last season and became the club's first Golden Ball, while his childhood team proudly reminded the world of his role in his career.
The first professional club of Dembélé celebrated its Ballon d'Or with a major communication campaign, including a full page in the team presenting it as “the pride of our team”. The 28 -year -old led PSG to his very first coronation in the Champions League and a historic hat -trick, with 35 goals and 16 assists during the campaign, ensuring him the highest individual distinction of world football.
From Rennes beginnings to glory at PSG
The ascent of French was closely linked to Rennes, which spotted it at the age of eight before integrating it into its training center from the age of thirteen. His journey, from Roazhon Park to world celebrity, is now completed, his native club using his triumph as a symbol of the success of his training center.
The Recruitment Director of Rennes, Philippe Barraud, returned to these first years: “By its qualities, its natural and exceptional technical capacities, Ousmane had a unique profile. With such a love of football, ”he recalls. “It's a great reward. Few clubs can today boast of having the ability to form a golden ball. ”
His victory also gives a new prestige to the PSG project, thus marking the long -awaited breakthrough of the club on the Ballon d'Or stage.
Dembélé's message after lifting the trophy
During his thank you speech at the Châtelet Theater, Dembélé wanted to remember his years of training: ” I also thank all the clubs where I played, Borussia Dortmund, Rennes, FC Barcelona, where I dreamed of playing and where I rubbed shoulders with great players like Iniesta and Lionel Messi, “he added. “The Ballon d'Or was not an objective of my career, but it is exceptional. I worked for the team to win the Champions League. Being rewarded with a trophy like the Ballon d'Or is exceptional, so I'm happy tonight. »»
