Zinedine Zidane took center stage at the Festival Dello Sport, a prestigious event hosted by La Gazzetta dello Sport that honors sporting excellence through the ages. Few figures in football encapsulate this theme as perfectly as Zidane, a legend both as a player for Real Madrid and as a coach who led the club to unprecedented success, including three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles.
During the event, Zidane was asked to share his most memorable moment beyond his iconic World Cup victory with France in 1998. Without hesitation, he pointed to one of his crowning achievements as Real Madrid’s manager: the 2017 Champions League final held in Cardiff, where Los Blancos triumphed over Juventus with a commanding 4-1 scoreline. This match is often hailed as one of the greatest displays of football ever witnessed, showcasing what many consider the finest Real Madrid team in history.
“The best moment of my career after the World Cup? Our second Champions League against Juventus,” Zidane remarked. “The way we played that second half was truly spectacular. I’ve watched it four, five, six times and I’ve always said: This is football. Perfection.” His words echo the sentiments of fans and analysts alike who remember that night as a benchmark for excellence in the sport.
A Tactical Masterclass
The performance against Juventus is frequently regarded as one of the highlights of Zidane’s managerial tenure. The match demonstrated a flawless blend of pressing, control, and lethal execution that left even one of the world’s best defenses struggling to cope. Juventus was known for its defensive prowess at that time, making Real Madrid’s offensive display all the more impressive.
Zidane also took a moment to reflect on his experiences coaching some of football’s brightest stars. When posed with a question about whether he preferred coaching Cristiano Ronaldo or Luka Modrić, his admiration for all his players was apparent. “I would coach both,” he stated emphatically. “I can’t answer that question because I liked both. Kroos and Benzema too. I’ve had some players… wow, incredible. It was incredible to coach them and watch them train.” He continued, highlighting the exceptional talents he worked with: “Modric, Kroos, Isco, Benzema, Rodrygo… they never lost the ball. Incredible.”
Legacy and Impact
Zidane’s legacy extends beyond individual accolades; it’s about how he transformed Real Madrid into a footballing powerhouse during his time at the helm. His ability to manage high-profile players while maintaining team cohesion is often cited as one of his greatest strengths. The chemistry among stars like Ronaldo and Modrić contributed significantly to their success on European soil.
As fans reminisce about those glory days under Zidane’s management, questions arise about whether such dominance can be replicated in modern football. With new challenges on the horizon for Real Madrid, supporters are eager to see how the club will navigate its future endeavors.
In reflecting on his storied career, Zidane encapsulated what it means to be part of such an elite group in football history. His insights provide not just nostalgia but also inspiration for aspiring players and coaches around the world.
As Zidane himself said about that unforgettable night in Cardiff: “This is football. Perfection.”
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