PSG v Flamengo: Zaïre-Emery on win, Safonov and making history | OneFootball

Warren Zaïre-Emery, the 19-year-old midfielder from Paris Saint-Germain, stopped in the mixed zone after the penalty shootout victory (1-1, then 3-1 on penalties) against Flamengo (video highlights PSG/Flamengo) this Wednesday in Doha as part of the final of the 2025 Intercontinental Cup.

Zaïre-Emery: “These are the kind of players we need.”

What did you say to Safonov after the penalties?

(Smiles) Honestly, we didn’t say anything, we just congratulated him! We’re really happy for him, he was ready. He waited for his moment and he was able to show all his quality.

Have you ever witnessed a penalty shootout with so many saves? What is Safonov’s personality like?

He’s a guy who integrated really well into the team, he learned French quickly, he’s always attentive. He’s here for the team, he always gives his best. These are the kind of players we need. Honestly, he’s here for the collective.

Zaïre-Emery: “Honestly, it feels good to be like this.”

How do you rank this victory compared to other trophies?

The goal was to win everything. We came to win the match, as we know how to do. It wasn’t an easy game, with a great opponent. But it also shows the strength of character this team has and all the good things we can do. Now, the hardest part comes with the second half of the season. We’ll have to keep going on this path.

You were incredible, what did you eat before the match?

(Smiles) Honestly, it feels good to be like this. I prepare myself as best as possible, I try to be the best on the pitch, to always give everything. It’s a pleasure. The room for improvement is huge, I hope it will continue.

Zaïre-Emery: “Continue to write history.”

How do you find the mental resources to always bounce back and win more trophies?

We have a coach who pushes us, who is never satisfied. He always wants the best from every player. The best one plays every time. We’re never satisfied either. We always want to win every possible trophy. That’s what we’ll try to keep doing, continue to write history.

Any specific work on penalties? What does Luis Enrique ask for?

We didn’t work on it this year, more last year. It’s a technical gesture, you have to be focused and relaxed. And then shoot, try to score (smiles).

What does it mean to win in Qatar?

It’s a source of pride. I think the president is proud of us, I haven’t seen him yet. It’s his home, our home. We’re very happy to win this trophy here. I hope there will be more, and more. I hope we’ll continue to write history.

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