Dugarry sees Zaïre-Emery dislodging Koundé at right-back for France

Warren Zaïre-Emery could shake up the hierarchy at right-back for France. After PSG’s victory over Manchester City (4-2) in the Ligue des Champions, Christophe Dugarry praised the Parisian midfielder’s performance and predicted increased competition with Jules Koundé.

“Warren Zaïre-Emery, I found him exceptional, and I think he will create competition. I found him very strong. And for France at right-back perhaps too,” said the former French international. Going further: “A Zaïre-Emery like that at right-back, it’s a gift! He plays the way Hakimi plays, and if we have that same profile in the France team, it will do us good.”

Koundé, whose performances on the right flank have not been unanimous since the start of Zinedine Zidane’s tenure, could see his starter status questioned during the next international window in November. The Blues will travel to Italy before hosting Turkey in Bordeaux for their final two matches of the Ligue des Nations group stage.

Zaïre-Emery had been called up by Zidane for the first gathering, but had to withdraw through injury. His performance against City therefore reignites the debate over his use in a defensive role within the French squad, which sits top of its group after three wins and a draw.