World champion Dugarry defends Deschamps and criticizes PSG for player injuries

Former French striker Christoph Dugarry sides with national coach amid controversy surrounding Dembélé and Doué.

PSG stars injured during France qualifiers

During France’s final qualifying match against Ukraine, PSG players Ousmane Dembélé and El Chadaille Doué suffered injuries that will sideline them for at least a month. The injuries sparked criticism from Paris Saint-Germain, who claimed that some medical recommendations had not been followed by coach Didier Deschamps when he called up and fielded the players.

Deschamps defended his decisions, stating that the selections were made professionally. The French national team insists the injuries resulted from long seasons at PSG, rather than mishandling by the coaching staff.

Dugarry blames PSG, supports Deschamps

Cristoph Dugarry, World Cup winner with France in 1998, weighed in during an interview with RMC Sport. He criticized PSG’s stance and defended Deschamps and the French Football Federation.

“I’m 100% behind Deschamps. Dembélé’s injury is primarily PSG’s fault. We’ve seen him fragile for years, and now he’s paying the price after an endless season. PSG’s attempt to manipulate the situation is scandalous and shows disrespect for the national team. They alone are responsible for his workload,” Dugarry said.

Last season, PSG reached both the Champions League and Club World Cup finals, heavily taxing their players. Dembélé made 60 appearances, while Doué totaled 64 across club and country, highlighting the strain on their physical condition.

France prepares for next World Cup qualifier

France will face Iceland today (September 9) at 3:45 p.m. Brasília time in their second 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match. Both teams won their opening games. The group leader will secure direct qualification for the tournament, while the runner-up will go to the play-offs.