Arthur Zagré, a left-back raised in the Paris Saint-Germain academy and former youth international for France, has made a significant decision by switching his sporting allegiance to Burkina Faso. At 24 years old, the versatile defender—currently plying his trade at Excelsior Rotterdam in the Eredivisie—has chosen to represent the Burkina Faso national team, citing his ancestral ties to the country.
a promising career trajectory
With 23 appearances and 2 goals for France’s U18 and U19 teams, Zagré has already made a mark in European football. His journey includes stints in Ligue 1 during the 2019-2020 season under Thomas Tuchel, followed by a move to AS Monaco. Though he was subsequently loaned to Dijon, FC Utrecht, and ultimately Excelsior Rotterdam, his consistency and defensive prowess have solidified his reputation as a reliable left-back.
This season, Zagré has contributed 3 goals and 2 assists in the Eredivisie, showcasing his offensive capabilities from the defensive line. Standing at just 1.68 meters tall, his agility and powerful left-footed strikes make him a dynamic presence on the field.
immediate impact expected for the étalons
Under the guidance of head coach Amir Abdou since March, Burkina Faso’s national team, known as the Étalons, is set to benefit from Zagré’s addition. The defender is expected to make his debut in the upcoming international friendlies scheduled for June, where Burkina Faso will face Belarus and Russia.
His arrival adds depth to the team’s left flank and offers tactical flexibility, given his ability to play higher up the pitch or even as a defensive midfielder. As his contract with Excelsior Rotterdam concludes in June, Zagré’s move to Burkina Faso aligns with both his heritage and career ambitions.