Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique praised Ousmane Dembele's outstanding display as the French champions kicked off their Champions League title defence with an emphatic 6-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday.
Dembele delivered a masterclass at the Parc des Princes, netting twice and setting up two more goals in a commanding performance. The Spanish tactician was full of admiration for his forward after the match.
'This was the Ousmane we have witnessed over the past three seasons. When you observe his creative abilities, his pressing intensity, and his contribution to the team, it is genuinely satisfying,' Luis Enrique said following the comprehensive win.
The French winger has featured sparingly in PSG's campaign this term as he gradually regains full fitness after the World Cup. Despite not being at peak condition, his impact was undeniable against the Slovak side.
'His performance was excellent tonight. He is working his way back to full sharpness step by step, but watching a talent like him in action is truly wonderful,' the coach added.
Ferran Torres was another standout performer, celebrating his European debut for PSG with a hat-trick. Both of Dembele's assists went to the Spanish forward, highlighting their developing partnership. Fabian Ruiz completed the scoring for the home side.
The result came despite Luis Enrique choosing to rest Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue, two crucial attacking talents, leaving them on the substitutes' bench throughout the match.
Discussing his squad depth, the manager said: 'Kvara and Doue are phenomenal talents. In my view, Kvara has the quality to claim the Ballon d'Or, as do Dembele and several others.' Ten PSG players currently feature among the 30 contenders for football's most coveted individual honour.
Luis Enrique also expressed respect for opposite number Yaya Toure, despite the lopsided scoreline. The former Ivory Coast international is leading Slovan this season and made history as the first African manager in Europe's premier club competition.
'Facing away the team that has lifted the trophy in consecutive years is always challenging, but I admire their footballing philosophy,' Luis Enrique commented. 'Today proved difficult for them as we demonstrated how challenging we can be when pressing with such intensity. Any team would struggle against that, but he possesses the qualities to become an excellent manager.'
Toure, who joined the Slovak outfit during the summer after guiding them through three qualifying rounds, acknowledged the gulf in class between the sides.
'Paris are strong contenders to win the trophy once more in my opinion. My players did everything they could, but it was extremely tough. They are exceptional,' said the former Barcelona and Manchester City midfielder.
Reflecting on the tactical challenge, Toure remarked: 'I cannot assign four players to mark Dembele alone. I want my team to express themselves as well, and they gave everything. I was somewhat disappointed today because Ousmane had not appeared at his sharpest in recent matches, but tonight he performed at 200 percent,' he said with a smile.
The Slovan boss concluded: 'I have been working with these players for only a few months, and this experience helps them understand the level of elite teams. There is a significant gap between us, but matches like this will aid our development and improvement.'
