France midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery has hit back at controversial comments made by Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who claimed Les Bleus "didn't have any French players" ahead of Tuesday's World Cup semi-final. The remarks, widely interpreted as a reference to the number of players of colour in Didier Deschamps' squad, have sparked outrage in France.
Rajoy's Remarks Ignite Controversy
In an opinion piece published by Spanish newspaper El Debate, Rajoy wrote: "They have a top-level squad. That said, they don't have any French players." The comments come after a Paraguayan senator launched what was widely regarded as a racist attack on France striker Kylian Mbappe. Even Spain's own players have distanced themselves from the remarks.
Zaire-Emery Responds
Zaire-Emery rejected the claim ahead of the semi-final clash. "The French team has players from different backgrounds and origins, as does the country. We are a united group, a united team, and that's all that matters," he said.
Spanish Players Show Support
Spanish players have also distanced themselves from the comments. Defender Pau Cubarsi said: "If they play for the French national team, they are French, regardless of their skin colour. We must show tolerance towards everyone, because we all deserve respect." Striker Borja Iglesias added: "I can understand that he didn't say it with bad intentions, but we need to be more vigilant about this kind of remark."
France Dismisses 'Scared' Claims
France have also dismissed claims by Lamine Yamal that they might be 'scared' of Spain, who beat France on their way to glory at Euro 2024. Zaire-Emery insisted such talk was "not very useful" and being ignored. "We are not afraid of anybody. These type of declarations will take place but personally I don't think this is very useful. The match is taking place tomorrow, not on social media," he added. "Things like this happen. I've had the same at Barcelona. But you have to do everything on the pitch. We try not to take into account the declarations. Let's not focus too much on what's being said."
