Warren Zaïre-Emery, the 19-year-old Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, stopped in the mixed zone after the penalty shootout victory (1-1, then 3-1 on penalties) against Flamengo this Wednesday in Doha, in the final of the 2025 Intercontinental Cup.
Zaïre-Emery: “These are the players we need.”
What did you say to Safonov after the penalty shootout?
(Smiling) We didn’t really say anything, we just congratulated him! We’re very happy with him; he was ready. He was waiting for his moment and he showed all his quality.
Have you ever witnessed a penalty shootout with so many saves? What is Safonov’s personality like?
He’s a young man who has been very well integrated into the team. He learned French quickly and is always attentive. He’s there for the team, he always gives his all. These are the kinds of players we need. Honestly, he’s there for the collective good.
Zaïre-Emery: “Honestly, it feels good to be like this.”
Where does this victory stand in relation to the other trophies?
The goal was to win everything. We came here to win the match, the way we know how. It wasn’t an easy match, against 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 is coming with the second half of the season. We’ll have to keep this momentum going.
You were incredible, what did you eat before the match?
(smiling) Honestly, it feels good to be like this. I prepare as best I can, I try to be the best on the pitch, to always give my all. It’s a pleasure. The potential for improvement is enormous, and I hope it continues.
Zaire-Emery: “Continue to write history.”
How do you find the mental strength to keep moving forward and winning more trophies?
We have a coach who pushes us, who is never satisfied. He always wants the best from every player. The best player plays every time. We are never satisfied either. We always want to win every possible trophy. That’s what we’re going to try to keep doing, keep writing history.
Specific work on penalty kicks? What does Luis Enrique ask for?
We didn’t work on it this year, more like last year. It’s a technical skill; you have to be focused and relaxed. And then shoot, try to score (smiles).
What does winning in Qatar mean to you?
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 make history.
