Zaïre-Emery could play right-back for France at the World Cup? | OneFootball

Warren Zaïre-Emery, a 19-year-old midfielder trained at Paris Saint-Germain, has admirably filled the right-back position during Achraf Hakimi's long absence (the 27-year-old right-back who was injured and then at the AFCON). This has sparked the idea of seeing him in this position with the French National Team during the 2026 World Cup. L’Equipe provided the response from coach Didier Deschamps.

“This versatility could already allow him to be part of the trip to the United States.”

This is not an official response from the Bleus coach for this World Cup, but it is credible and quite sensible. Zaïre-Emery remains primarily a midfielder, and there are specialized right-backs available. Not to mention that this role is quite different at PSG and in other teams, including the French National Team.

With Paris, the Parisian Titi often finds himself in midfield positions, as is required of Hakimi. This is part of Luis Enrique's playing system. This is why it has often been noted that recruiting a pure right-back might not necessarily be the solution (even if he could adapt).

However, Zaïre-Emery could indeed be a backup for the Bleus; it is interesting for him and the team that he already has this experience and successful performances. It is certainly an asset to be on the list, especially since the competition is fierce in midfield. Even though he also has a say in this position, where players have struggled to fully convince lately.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.