France Football Interview
Q: “Which athlete has inspired you the most in your life and career?”
Ousmane Dembélé:
“That’s a tough question, but two names immediately come to mind—Michael Jordan and Lionel Messi. I never met Michael Jordan in person, but watching The Last Dance completely changed my perspective on greatness. That documentary isn’t just about basketball—it’s a masterclass in mentality, discipline, leadership, and obsession with winning. What amazed me most was how Jordan became a worldwide phenomenon without the help of social media. In today’s world, players go viral every week, but back then, it was pure talent and relentless drive that made him a global icon. His competitive spirit, his refusal to accept anything less than excellence, and the way he carried the Chicago Bulls to multiple championships—that’s the stuff of legends. Watching that story unfold made me reflect on my own journey and how far dedication can truly take someone.”
“But when it comes to football—my world—there’s no doubt who inspired me most: Leo Messi. I grew up glued to the screen watching FC Barcelona. Their style, their dominance, their magic—it was irresistible. And at the center of it all was Messi. He wasn’t just a player, he was a phenomenon. The way he moved, the things he did with the ball, how he made the impossible look effortless… there’s no one like him. To me, he’s the greatest footballer the game has ever seen—full stop. And then, to think that I eventually ended up not just playing for the same club, but sharing the pitch with him? That’s something I’ll tell my children about one day. It wasn’t just inspiring—it was surreal. I learned so much from simply observing him—his calmness, his focus, his ability to change a game in a split second. I’m genuinely proud to have lived that experience and called him a teammate.”