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Messi has been out since breaking down his arm against him.
Both are included in the face of Betis in La Liga this weekend but there was a surprise omission for Dembele.
Valverde said the 21-year-old had been left after a "sporting assessment".
Messi's return would come as a major boost to Barca. Their captain was included in the track squad to face Inter Milan on Wednesday.
Asked if he could play 90 minutes against Betis, Valverde said: "We will see, but he's lost his fear of falling or struggling against an opponent.
"You have gotten away from your head, you can not be thinking about it."
Miss Luis Suarez, Philippe Coutinho, Rafinha and Malcom have all impressed.
"Everyone can understand it, but they want to be this team," Valverde said. "I'm looking for the best for the team and that's it."
Barcelona paid around 105 million euros to sign Dembele from Borussia Dortmund last year but injury and inconsistency have plagued his career in Spain so far.
"Let's hope he can make the most of his talent and the club, which has made a great investment in him," Valverde added.
Barca goal the defender's place in the starting line this weekend is not guaranteed, given Clement Lenglet has done well alongside Gerard Pique during the team's strong run.
"It is great news that Lenglet has shown his level," Valverde said. "Far from being a problem, it is perfect to have more possibilities, we will see tomorrow who plays."
Barcelona sit three points at Betis, before the start of the international break.
Valverde also praised his full-back Jordi Alba, who earned a reclamation to the squad for the first time under the new coach Luis Enrique.
"We have seen Jordi improve every day," Valverde said. "Every coach asks for something and is a winner at the national team is well-deserved."
Coutinho will not play against Betis. The midfielder is recovering from a hamstring strain.
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