Dembélé announces Zaïre-Emery will get minutes in World Cup semi-final

Warren Zaïre-Emery played his first World Cup minutes on Thursday evening during France’s quarter-final victory over Morocco (2-0). Coming on in the 71st minute in place of Manu Koné, the PSG midfielder delivered a notable performance, very active and solid in the challenges.

Didier Deschamps did not hide his satisfaction after the match. “Warren made a very, very good entry, so that’s great. They all need to feel ready. And those who don’t play are with the whole group. That’s the particularity of sport and football: we create emotions and we share them,” said the manager.

Ousmane Dembélé went further, announcing that his teammate will be used again before the tournament ends. “I’m very happy for Warren Zaïre-Emery, he deserves to play in this team. He’s an incredible player who does good for any team. He will have more minutes and importance for this team,” affirmed the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner.

The semi-final against Spain or Belgium appears to be the next opportunity for Zaïre-Emery to take the pitch. With Adrien Rabiot expected to start and Manu Koné, who was excellent against the Lions of the Atlas, likely to partner him, the availability of Aurélien Tchouameni could reshuffle the midfield.

The main interested party himself was savoring the moment while keeping his head cool. “These are always great moments, memories that mark a career. You have to know how to make the most of them while staying focused, because now there’s this semi-final to prepare for. It’s an exceptional season for me. There’s only joy, happiness and smiles,” he said at the final whistle.