Rothen Concerned as PSG Midfielder Zaire-Emery Struggles to Regain Form

Paris, October 2023 – A classic upset at the Theatre du Chatelet

**Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)** faced a surprising defeat against their long-time rivals, Olympique de Marseille, with a narrow 1-0 scoreline. This loss, which coincided with the Ballon d’Or ceremony at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, marked PSG’s first defeat at the Stade Vélodrome in 14 years.

Missing key players: PSG’s lineup shuffle

**Luis Enrique**, PSG’s current manager, had to adapt to the absence of crucial players, including Joao Neves. Neves is considered a vital part of PSG’s midfield dynamics. **Warren Zaire-Emery**, previously a standout performer, was brought in as Neves’ replacement. However, the promising young player struggled to make an impact, failing to secure his place as a starter.

Concerns over Zaire-Emery’s performance

The situation **raised concerns among football analysts**, particularly Jérôme Rothen, a prominent consultant. Rothen voiced his worries on RMC Sport, expressing that Zaire-Emery seemed to have regressed under Enrique’s management. “The observation is harsh for those who love French football and PSG,” Rothen remarked, noting that despite high expectations, Zaire-Emery is now primarily a bench player.

Rothen’s advice: A fresh start elsewhere?

Rothen suggested that **Zaire-Emery might benefit from a move to a different club**. He observed, “Every time he plays, his performances are average. Sometimes, he’s elevated by the team’s overall success. But is he a fit for Luis Enrique’s strategy? I don’t think so. A new environment might rejuvenate his career.”

Zaire-Emery’s determination to reclaim his spot

Despite the challenges, **Zaire-Emery remains committed** to regaining his former standing. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, he aims to boost his confidence and secure his role in PSG’s lineup. He stated, “The goal is to find my confidence, enjoy the game again, and earn my place back. I know what I must do.”

This resilience was evident during a match against Angers on August 22 at Parc des Princes, where PSG secured a 1-0 victory. **Zaire-Emery is focused on overcoming his slump**, driven by the desire to prove his worth and contribute significantly to his team’s success.