Dembélé blushes at France fitness coach's praise during training

Ousmane Dembélé is not accustomed to being put on the spot, but Cyril Moine, France’s fitness coach, managed to do so during a training sequence filmed and shared on the Bleus’ social media.

As the Paris Saint-Germain forward pedalled on a stationary bike, Moine stopped by his side to offer him some flattering words. “You’re one of my treasures, Ousmane. We take care of you. We look after the machine because it’s a real little machine. He’s someone serious, who is involved, focused on his work. He’s on a mission,” the staff member said. Slightly embarrassed, Dembélé replied with a smile: “I’m blushing”.

The sequence illustrates the relaxed atmosphere within the France squad as a crucial match approaches. Dembélé, whose place in Didier Deschamps’ starting XI was not guaranteed in recent international competitions, has established himself as an essential starter throughout the tournament. After a difficult start against Senegal, he gradually raised his level, notably scoring a hat-trick in the final group stage match against Norway. He now has 5 goals and 2 assists since the start of the 2026 World Cup.

Beyond his performances, the former Barcelona player is described as a unifying force in the dressing room, appreciated by both teammates and staff. The Bleus face Spain on Tuesday at 9 p.m. for a place in the Coupe du Monde 2026 final.