Warren Zaïre-Emery, a 19-year-old midfielder who came up through the Paris Saint-Germain youth system, performed admirably at right-back during the long absence of Achraf Hakimi (the 27-year-old right-back was injured and then sidelined for the Africa Cup of Nations). This has led to speculation about him playing in that position for the French national team during the 2026 World Cup. L’Equipe has provided an answer from national team coach Didier Deschamps.
“This versatility could already allow him to be part of the squad traveling to the United States.”
Does this mean he has a short-term future in that position with the French national team? That’s not the current thinking for coach Didier Deschamps.
In the meantime, this versatility could already allow him to be part of the squad traveling to the United States. The preparation and the start of the tournament will determine the rest. In 2018 and 2022, the right-back expected to start before the World Cup wasn’t the one who started the final (Pavard moved ahead of Djibril Sidibé for the tournament in Russia, and Koundé replaced the Marseille defender from the second match onwards in Qatar).
This isn’t an official response from the French national team coach for this World Cup, but it’s credible and quite sensible. Zaïre-Emery is primarily a midfielder, and there are natural 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 youth player often finds himself in midfield positions, as is the case with Hakimi. This is part of Luis Enrique’s system. That’s precisely why it’s often been pointed out that recruiting a pure full-back wouldn’t necessarily be the solution (even if he could adapt).
However, Zaire-Emery could be a valuable asset to the French national team; it’s beneficial for him and the squad that he already has this experience and a track record of success. This is certainly a strength in securing a place on the roster, given the fierce competition in midfield. Even though he also has a say in that position, where players have struggled to fully convince recently.
