Whilst France are shining at the World Cup, not all of their players have been enjoying the festivities in the same way. Indeed, this is particularly true of Warren Zaïre-Emery (20), who has been confined to the role of substitute since the start of the tournament.

Having not been selected by Didier Deschamps for Les Bleus‘ first five matches in the run-up to their quarter-final against Morocco, the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder is reportedly struggling to cope with his situation and has become increasingly frustrated, according to L’Équipe. Nothing to make the young Frenchman angry, however, but rather a – legitimate – sense of bewilderment, especially as he is coming off the back of a highly successful season with his club.

When spoken to by the French national team’s coaching staff, Zaïre-Emery nevertheless had the opportunity to express his dismay, as he had previously done to his close friends and family.

All the more so as this is effectively a repeat of what happened two years ago, during Euro 2024, which he had already sat out without playing a single minute.

Now regarded as the fourth or even fifth choice in midfield – and not as a potential replacement for Jules Koundé (27) at right-back – ‘WZE’ could, however, capitalise on a potential injury to Aurélien Tchouaméni (26) to finally kick off his international career with Les Bleus. Something the ‘Titi’ is obviously looking forward to with great anticipation.

GFFN | Léo Aschi