Preferred over Joao Neves, Zaïre‑Emery (20) delivered a universally praised display as PSG triumphed 4‑2 at Manchester City in the Champions League.
He isn’t the loudest voice, yet fans love his reliability, composure under pressure and physical presence alongside Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha. He dominated midfield, especially in the first half, added an assist for Vitinha and a clever back‑heel inside the box.
“A quiet player who says nothing, but works.” Will he become a regular starter for Les Bleus?
The French international (13 caps, 1 goal) earned unanimous acclaim. After Foot hailed him: “He was exceptional,” said Christophe Dugarry. “He’ll create competition with the three.”
Daniel Riolo added: “I found him incredible. For PSG this player is a blessing, a quiet worker who says nothing but delivers.”
Though he shone in midfield over Joao Neves, “WZE” can also play right‑back as he did last season covering for Achraf Hakimi. Dugarry hopes Zidane will slot him into defense. “If he matches Hakimi’s style for France, it’ll help us,” the 1998 world champion said. In my view, his versatility could be France’s secret weapon.
Luis Fernandez, on‑air, also backed the full‑back option. “When he covered for two‑three months at Hakimi’s spot, he was superb, showing exceptional intelligence, projecting, defending, attacking.” Warren left at 84’ for Lucas Beraldo, adding another strong outing to his 192 PSG appearances.