Patrick Zabi, magic from his very first steps with the Elephants?

For his first squad list upon returning to the Elephants' bench, Hervé Renard clearly broke with his predecessor Emerse Faé. The French coach called up 8 new players including Patrick Zabi, the Ivorian rising star who is gaining momentum.

A lot of pressure around Patrick Zabi

Patrick Zabi is a pure product of Ivorian football development. From Maracana pitches in Yopougon to Ligue 1 fields, the 19-year-old midfielder has seen a meteoric rise. Gifted with exceptional technique, he forged his reputation from the neighborhoods of Abidjan, earning the nickname Zabi la Magie. He works his magic every single time he touches the ball.

For his debut with the Elephants, Zabi already has to prove himself. At just 19, he is already expected to make his mark and deliver a stunning performance, as he so often does. All of Yopougon and the whole of Côte d'Ivoire will be watching him. The Paris FC player is a genuine diamond in the rough. Hervé Renard could help him reach a new level.

Zabi la Magie is a true phenomenon, and Ettien Daniel Brou, president of Ivoire FC, his training club, would be the first to confirm that.

“We brought him in at age 12 and I knew he would become something special. He was going strong, technically it was impressive, and above all he loved to work. Very quickly, Zabi was promoted to play district championships with the older players.” he revealed in remarks shared by RMC Sport.

Called up despite limited playing time at Paris FC

This shows the impressive qualities of Patrick Zabi. Signed for 25 million euros by Paris FC from Stade de Reims, the player is being carefully protected by his club's management. They know they have a real gem who is going to explode onto the scene very soon. As a result, they are trying to control his development and not “burn him out” given the huge demands of top-level football. Since the start of the Ligue 1 season, he has played just 39 minutes across three matches, registering one assist. Despite this limited club playing time, he has won over the Ivory Coast manager.

Even his coach Liam Rosenior is impressed by his qualities: “He’s a wonderful young man, and I’ve greatly enjoyed working with him since the start of pre-season. But we also have to remember his age and protect him. We’re lucky to have him, as well as Rudy (Matondo) and Nhoa (Sangui), talented but humble youngsters who want to develop and learn. Zabi could be a special player in the future but we need to take our time with him.” he said. 

If he continues on this path, Patrick Zabi represents the future for the Elephants in midfield. His first appearances in the Ivorian colors will be closely scrutinized. He has already had good games with the U23s. Now it’s up to him to confirm it with the senior team. The native of Yopougon has all the qualities needed to break through from his very first call-up.