Warren Zaïre-Emery – following in Kylian Mbappé’s footsteps
Today, Warren Zaïre-Emery’s (17) fairy-tale start to his professional career got even sweeter, as his name left France boss Didier Deschamps’ lips when announcing the 23-man squad that will be facing Gibraltar and Greece in the upcoming international break.
In the press conference following the list, Dédé didn’t hesitate to praise the Parisian, stating he was there “because he has all the qualities to be at the top level”.
A decision which, for anyone having caught a glimpse of WZE in action this season, came as no surprise. The Frenchman began the season in Luis Enrique’s PSG starting lineup and hasn’t left it since, having caught the eye with his imposing serenity in the midfield and omnipresence across the pitch. He’s even getting his name on the scoresheet, scoring in both of his team’s last two Ligue 1 outings.
His rapid rise draws comparisons to PSG teammate Kylian Mbappé, who only needed 41 club matches with Monaco before his first France call-up. Zaïre-Emery is just above that, with 45 club games under his belt, although he is a year younger than the France captain was, at 17 years of age. Warren is now the youngest ever player to be called up to the national team since Maurice Gastiger in 1914, beating new France teammate Eduardo Camavinga’s record.
The young midfielder took advantage of France regular Aurélien Tchouaméni’s injury forfeit to make the list, and as France are already qualified for the 2024 Euros, he can hope Deschamps gives him the minutes he needs to show off his immense talent.
GFFN | Alfred Lalande
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