While France is thriving at the World Cup, not all players are experiencing the joy of the tournament equally. This particularly applies to Warren Zaïre-Emery (20), who has been relegated to a substitute role since the tournament began.
Didier Deschamps chose not to include him in Les Bleus’s first five matches leading up to their quarter-final against Morocco. According to L’Équipe, the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder is struggling to adapt to his situation, growing increasingly frustrated despite his lack of anger; instead, he feels a bewildering sense of confusion, especially after a successful season at his club.
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In discussions with the national team’s coaching staff, Zaïre-Emery expressed his disappointment, having already shared his feelings with close friends and family.
Adding to the frustration, this situation mirrors his experience from two years ago at Euro 2024, where he also did not play a single minute.
Currently seen as the fourth or even fifth choice in midfield—and not viewed as a potential substitute for Jules Koundé (27) at right-back—’WZE’ remains hopeful that an injury to Aurélien Tchouaméni (26) might allow him to finally embark on his international career with Les Bleus. This is a prospect the young talent is eagerly anticipating.