"When used properly, he could become the best player in the world."
This bold statement from former Barcelona boss Xavi back in 2021 contained a sentiment Ousmane Dembele had heard throughout his career.
Some raised their eyebrows and many doubted the mercurial Frenchman would ever be able to reach the heights predicted for him after becoming the second most expensive player in the world when he signed for Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth £135.5m in 2017.
But, after a journey that has had many lows as he battled against injury, inconsistency and questions about his attitude, the 28-year-old has finally seen that prophecy come true after winning the Ballon d'Or - a prize he has long-since dreamt of.
As he thanked his family for their sacrifices in helping him win the top men's award in Paris, Dembele broke down in tears, a sign of the ups and downs he has experienced throughout his career.
