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Zinedine Yazid Zidane (French: Zinédine Yazid Zidane;[4] French: [zinɛdin zidan];[5] born 23 June 1972), popularly known as Zizou, is a French professional football manager and former player who played as an attacking midfielder. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Zidane was a playmaker renowned for his elegance, vision, passing, and ball control. He received many individual accolades as a player, including being named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1998, 2000 and 2003, and winning the 1998 Ballon d'Or. He last coached La Liga club Real Madrid and is one of the most successful coaches in the world.

Key Information

Zidane started his career at Cannes, before establishing himself as one of the best players in the French Ligue 1 at Bordeaux. In 1996, he moved to Italian club Juventus, where he won several trophies, including two Serie A titles. He moved to Real Madrid for a world-record fee at the time of €77.5 million in 2001, which remained a record for the next eight years. In Spain, Zidane won several trophies, including a La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League. In the 2002 Champions League final, he scored a left-foot volleyed winner that is considered one of the greatest goals in football history. In 2012 and 2017, respectively, Zidane was named in Real Madrid's and Juventus' greatest XI of all time.

Capped 108 times by France, Zidane won the 1998 FIFA World Cup, scoring a brace in the final, and was named in the All-Star team. This triumph made him a national hero in France and he received the Legion of Honour in 1998. He won UEFA Euro 2000 and was named Player of the Tournament. He also received the Golden Ball as Player of the Tournament at the 2006 World Cup, despite his infamous sending off in the final against Italy for headbutting Marco Materazzi in the chest. He retired as the fourth-most capped player in French history.

In 2004, he was named in the FIFA 100, a list of the world's greatest living players compiled by Pelé, and in the same year was named the best European footballer of the past 50 years in the UEFA Golden Jubilee Poll. Zidane is one of ten players to have won the World Cup, the Champions League, and the Ballon d'Or. He was the ambassador for Qatar's successful bid to stage the 2022 World Cup, the first Arab country to host the tournament.

After retiring as a player, Zidane began his coaching career at Real Madrid Castilla. He remained in the position for two years, before managing the first team in 2016. In his initial three seasons, Zidane became the first coach to win the Champions League three times in a row. He also won the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup twice each, as well as a La Liga title and a Supercopa de España. This success led to Zidane being named Best FIFA Men's Coach in 2017. He resigned in 2018, but returned to the club in 2019, and won another La Liga title and a Supercopa de España, before leaving again in 2021.

Early life and career

[edit]
La Castellane in the northwestern edge of Marseille where Zidane was born in 1972
La Corniche, seaside roadway along the coast of Marseille, with a mural of Zidane on the wall

Zinedine Yazid Zidane was born on 23 June 1972 in La Castellane, Marseille, in Southern France.[6] He is the youngest of five siblings.[7] Zidane is of Algerian descent, and his parents, Smaïl and Malika, immigrated to Paris from the village of Aguemoune in the Berber-speaking region of Kabylie in northern Algeria in 1953 before the start of the Algerian War. The family, which had settled in the city's tough northern districts of Barbès and Saint-Denis, found little work in the region, and in the mid-1960s moved to the northern Marseille suburb of La Castellane in the 16th arrondissement of Marseille.[8] In an interview with Esquire magazine, he stated:

I have an affinity with the Arabic world. I have it in my blood, via my parents. I'm very proud of being French, but also very proud of having these roots and this diversity.[9]

His father worked as a warehouseman and security guard at a department store, often on the night shift, while his mother was a housewife.[10] The family lived a reasonably comfortable life by the standards of the neighbourhood, which was notorious throughout Marseille for its high crime and unemployment rates.[11][12] Zidane credits his strict upbringing and his father as the "guiding light" in his career.[9]

It was in Castellane where Zidane had his earliest introduction in football, joining in at the age of five in football games that the neighbourhood's children played on the Place Tartane, an 80-by-12-yard plaza that served as the main square of the housing complex.[13] In July 2011, Zidane named former Marseille players Blaž Slišković, Enzo Francescoli and Jean-Pierre Papin as his idols while growing up.[14][15] At the age of ten, Zidane got his first player's licence after joining the junior team of a local club from Castellane by the name of US Saint-Henri.[16] After spending a year and a half at US Saint-Henri, Zidane joined SO Septèmes-les-Vallons when the Septèmes coach Robert Centenero convinced the club's Director to get Zidane.[16] Zidane stayed with Septèmes until the age of 14, at which time he was selected to attend a three-day training camp at the CREPS (Regional Centre for Sports and Physical Education) in Aix-en-Provence, one of several such footballing institutes run by the French Football Federation. It was here that Zidane was spotted by AS Cannes scout and former player Jean Varraud, who recommended him to the training centre director of the club.[17] As a 14-year-old watching the 1986 World Cup, the performance of Diego Maradona left an indelible mark on him, with Zidane stating Maradona "was on another level".[18]

Club career

[edit]

Cannes

[edit]

"He'd go past one, two, three, five, six players – it was sublime. His feet spoke with the ball"

—Jean Varraud, former player who discovered Zidane.[17]

Zidane went to Cannes for a six-week stay, but ended up remaining at the club for four years to play at the professional level. Having left his family to join Cannes, he was invited by Cannes Director Jean-Claude Elineau to leave the dormitory he shared with 20 other trainees and to come and stay with him and his family. Zidane later said that, while living with the Elineaus, he found equilibrium.[10]

It was at Cannes where Zidane's first coaches noticed that he was raw and sensitive, prone to attack spectators who insulted his race or family.[10] His first coach, Jean Varraud, encouraged him to channel his anger and focus on his own game. Zidane spent his first weeks at Cannes mainly on cleaning duty as a punishment for punching an opponent who mocked his ghetto origins.[10] The occasional violence that he would display throughout his career was shaped by an internal conflict of being an Algerian-Frenchman suspended between cultures, and surviving the tough streets of La Castellane where he grew up.[10]

Zidane made his professional debut with Cannes on 18 May 1989 in a French Division 1 match against Nantes.[19] He scored his first goal for the club on 10 February 1991[20] also against Nantes in a 2–1 win. After the match, during a party for all the Cannes players, Zidane was given a car by Cannes chairman Alain Pedretti, who had promised him one the day he scored his first goal for the club.[21] On the pitch, Zidane displayed extraordinary technique on the ball, offering glimpses of the talent that would take him to the top of the world game.[17] In his first full season with Cannes, the club secured its first ever European football berth by qualifying for the UEFA Cup, after finishing fourth in the league. This remains the club's highest finish in the top flight since getting relegated for the first time from the first division in the 1948–49 season.[22]

Bordeaux

[edit]

Zidane was transferred to Girondins de Bordeaux in the 1992–93 season, winning the 1995 Intertoto Cup after beating Karlsruher SC[23][24] and finishing runner-up against Bayern Munich in the 1995–96 UEFA Cup[24][25][26] during his four years with the club. He played a set of midfield combinations with Bixente Lizarazu and Christophe Dugarry, which would become the trademark of both Bordeaux and the 1998 French national team. In 1995, Blackburn Rovers manager Kenny Dalglish had expressed interest in signing both Zidane and Dugarry, to which club owner Jack Walker reportedly replied, "Why do you want to sign Zidane when we have Tim Sherwood?"[27] Also toward the beginning of the 1996 season, according to football agent Barry Silkman, Zidane was offered to Newcastle United for £1.2 million, but the club turned down the offer after watching him, claiming that he was not good enough for the English First Division.[28] In 1996, Zidane received the award for Ligue 1 Player of the Year.[29]

Juventus

[edit]

"He is a special player. He creates space where there is none. No matter where he gets the ball or how it comes to him, he can get out of trouble. His imagination and his technique are amazing"

—Juventus teammate Edgar Davids on Zidane's ability.[30]

After a series of stand out performances for both Bordeaux and France, Zidane had offers to join Europe's top clubs in the spring of 1996, deciding on a move to UEFA Champions League winners Juventus during the close season.[31] Zidane's impact in Italy was immediate, winning the 1996–97 Serie A title and the 1996 Intercontinental Cup.[32] He was named Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year in his first season.[33] Zidane's growing status in the sport saw him chosen in a European XI to face a World XI – featuring a forward line of Ronaldo and Gabriel Batistuta – in December 1997.[34]

As the playmaker at Juve, Zidane played just behind forward Alessandro Del Piero, with Del Piero recalling, "Zidane had an extraordinary talent, which contributed to his sole interest in helping the team. He was not a selfish player. He had a unique ability to be a great and to be a team player. I was lucky to play with him."[35] He lost in the 1997 UEFA Champions League Final 3–1 to Borussia Dortmund when he was unable to make an impression against the close marking of Paul Lambert.[36]

The following season, Zidane scored seven goals in 32 matches in the league to help Juventus win the 1997–98 Serie A and thus retain the Scudetto. In Europe, Juventus made their third consecutive UEFA Champions League Final appearance, but lost the game 1–0 to Real Madrid. In 1998, Zidane was named FIFA World Player of the Year, and won the Ballon d'Or. Juventus finished second in the 2000–01 Serie A, but were eliminated in the group stage of the Champions League, after Zidane was banned for head-butting Hamburger SV player Jochen Kientz.[37] In 2001, Zidane was named Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year for the second time.[33]

Real Madrid

[edit]
Zidane with teammate David Beckham in 2003

In 2001, Zidane joined Real Madrid for a world-record fee of 150 billion Italian lire,[38][39] (about €77.5 million by fixed exchange rate; a reported 12.8 billion pesetas[40]) in instalments,[41] and signed a four-year contract. The latest addition to the Galácticos era of global stars signed by Real Madrid every year, in his first season at the club Zidane scored a famous match-winning goal, a volley hit with his weaker left foot from the edge of the 18-yard box, in Madrid's 2–1 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the 2002 UEFA Champions League Final.[42][43] The goal has been cited as one of the greatest in Champions League history.[42][44][45] The magnitude of the strike saw Zidane produce one of his most emotional goal celebrations as he ran toward the touchline with mouth wide open, screaming in delight.[46]

Zinedine Zidane, 18 yards out, watching and waiting, adjusts his body and, in one, smooth movement, pirouettes and catches it full on the volley with his left foot. It flies past Hans-Jörg Butt. It was the moment of Zidane's apotheosis, more so than the 1998 World Cup final, because of the moment's grace and beauty, because of his control of everything around him. He was Bruce Lee in slow motion while kung-fu chaos reigned around.

— Rory Smith in The Telegraph, Top 20 sporting moments of the decade: Zinedine Zidane's Champions League final winner.[42]

"He dominates the ball, he is a walking spectacle and he plays as if he had silk gloves on each foot. He makes it worthwhile going to the stadium – he's one of the best I have ever seen."

—Alfredo Di Stéfano on Zidane after he was named World Player of the Year in 2003.[47]

The next season, Zidane helped Real Madrid to win the 2002–03 La Liga, starring alongside Luís Figo in midfield, and was named the FIFA World Player of the Year for the third time.[48] In 2004, fans voted him as the best European footballer of the previous 50 years in UEFA's fiftieth-anniversary Golden Jubilee Poll.[49]

While Zidane's final season of club football ended without a trophy, he enjoyed success on a personal note by scoring his first hat-trick, against Sevilla, in a 4–2 win in January 2006.[50] He ended the season for Real Madrid as their second highest goalscorer and assists provider behind teammates Ronaldo and David Beckham respectively, with nine goals and ten assists in 28 games.[51] On 7 May 2006, Zidane, who had announced his plans to retire after the 2006 World Cup,[52] played his farewell match and scored in a 3–3 draw with Villarreal. The squad wore commemorative shirts with ZIDANE 2001–2006 below the club logo. The 80,000 fans inside the Santiago Bernabéu held up a banner reading, "Thanks for the magic."[17]

In 2012, Zidane featured for Madrid in an All Stars Match against Manchester United which resulted in a 3–2 win for Real. In April 2013, he was named by Marca as a member of the "Best foreign eleven in Real Madrid's history."[53]

International career

[edit]

Both France and Algeria consider Zidane a citizen. It was rumoured that coach Abdelhamid Kermali denied Zidane a position for the Algerian squad because he felt the young midfielder was not fast enough.[54] Zidane dismissed the rumour in a 2005 interview, saying that he would have been ineligible to play for Algeria because he had already played for France.[55]

Zidane was a member of the French under-21 squad that won a bronze medal at the 1993 Mediterranean Games in Languedoc-Roussillon.[56] He earned his first cap with France as a substitute in a friendly against the Czech Republic on 17 August 1994, which ended in a 2–2 draw after Zidane scored twice to help France erase a 2–0 deficit. After Eric Cantona was handed a year-long suspension in January 1995 for assaulting a fan, Zidane took over the playmaker position.[57]

Euro 1996

[edit]

Despite not being at his best during the tournament, France reached the last four. Zidane was not yet fully established in the French team and his level was quite average during the whole event, but he managed to score in the penalty shootout in both the quarter-final and semi-final. France was eliminated in the Euro 96 semi-finals in a penalty shootout against the Czech Republic.[58]

1998 World Cup

[edit]
Following France's World Cup win, an image of Zidane was projected on the Arc de Triomphe (pictured) along with the words "Merci Zizou".[59]

The 1998 FIFA World Cup was the first World Cup that Zidane participated in; the tournament was held in his home country, France. The French team won all three games in the group stage, with Zidane setting up Christophe Dugarry's goal in the opening match against South Africa from a corner, and contributing to Thierry Henry's opening goal in the second match against Saudi Arabia. He was sent off in the latter match for a stamp on Fuad Anwar, becoming the first French player to receive a red card in a World Cup Finals match.[60] Without their playmaker, France proceeded to win 1–0 in the round of sixteen game against Paraguay and, on his return to the side, defeated Italy 4–3 on penalties after a goalless draw in the quarter-finals, with Zidane netting the first spot kick in the shoot-out.[61] France then defeated Croatia 2–1 in the semi-final. Although Zidane had played a role in the team's accomplishments, he had yet to score a goal at the World Cup.[60][62]

Zidane and France went on to play against defending champions and favourites Brazil at the Stade de France in the 1998 FIFA World Cup Final. France dominated Brazil from the kick-off, with Zidane scoring two similar goals, both headers from corner kicks taken by Emmanuel Petit and Youri Djorkaeff. Courtesy of Zidane's two goals, France went into the half-time break 2–0 up with one hand on the World Cup trophy.[17] Petit added a third goal deep in stoppage time to seal the 3–0 win and France's first World Cup. Named man of the match, Zidane became an instant national hero and would receive the Legion of Honour later that year.[59] More than one million people lined the Champs-Élysées in Paris, with celebrations centred around the Arc de Triomphe.[63][64]

Euro 2000

[edit]
Zidane's France jersey from Euro 2000

Two years later France won Euro 2000, becoming the first team to hold both the World Cup and the European Championship since West Germany in 1974. Zidane finished with two goals, a bending free kick against Spain in the quarter-final and the golden goal in the semi-final against Portugal with a penalty.[65][66] He also set-up Henry's goal in a 3–0 win over Denmark in their opening group match.[67] UEFA named Zidane Player of the Tournament.[68]

Zidane himself believes he was at his peak during the tournament, while the UEFA website states, "In Belgium and the Netherlands, Zidane dominated a major championship in a way no individual had managed since Diego Maradona in 1986. From the opening game against Denmark to the final against Italy, 'Zizou' shone brightly, casting a spell on his opponents with clever flicks, mesmerising stepovers, slaloming runs and masterful vision."[69]

2002 World Cup

[edit]

As reigning world and European champions, France entered the 2002 World Cup in Japan/Korea as favourites but a thigh injury sustained in a warm up match before the tournament prevented Zidane from playing in France's first two matches and without their talisman, the French team failed to score in either match, losing 1–0 against Senegal, and holding Uruguay to a goalless draw. He was rushed back prematurely for the third game against Denmark, despite not being fully fit, but could not prevent France from losing 2–0, and being ignominiously eliminated in the group stage without scoring a single goal; the worst performance by a defending champion in the history of the competition.[70]

Euro 2004

[edit]

At Euro 2004, France topped their group with wins over England and Switzerland. In the opening match against England, Zidane scored a free kick and penalty in stoppage time to turn impending defeat into a 2–1 victory.[71][72] In the following group match against Croatia, his free-kick was deflected by defender Igor Tudor, who scored an own goal; the match ended in a 2–2 draw.[73] In France's final group match, Zidane opened the scoring in an eventual 3–1 win over Switzerland.[74] However, France were knocked out in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Greece in a surprise 1–0 loss.[75] After France's elimination, Zidane announced his retirement from international football.[76]

2006 World Cup

[edit]

What I am going to say may sound over the top, but it's the truth. God exists and he has returned to the France team.

Thierry Henry, on Zidane's return.[77]
Zidane during the 2006 World Cup final

With the mass retirement of veteran key players such as Bixente Lizarazu, Marcel Desailly, Claude Makélélé and Lilian Thuram, France struggled to qualify for the 2006 World Cup. At the urging of coach Raymond Domenech, Zidane came out of retirement and was immediately reinstated as team captain.[78] Zidane, along with Thuram and Makélélé, made his competitive return for France in a 3–0 win over the Faroe Islands on 3 September 2005. The trio helped France rise from fourth place to win their qualifying group.[79] On 27 May 2006, Zidane earned his hundredth cap for France in a 1–0 friendly win over Mexico, in what would also be his last match at the Stade de France. Zidane became France's fourth player to reach 100 caps, after Desailly, Thuram and Didier Deschamps.[80]

France had a slow start to the 2006 Finals and, after being suspended for the third match of the group stage, Zidane returned to set up a goal for Patrick Vieira and score one himself in the second round match against Spain.[81] In the quarter-final France held Brazil to just one shot on goal in the rematch of the 1998 final. Zidane assisted Thierry Henry's deciding goal and was named Man of the Match by FIFA.[82][83] France faced Portugal in the semi-final and, as in Brussels six years earlier; once again, Zidane's penalty kick decided the contest and sent France to another major final.[84][85]

Having already announced he was to retire after the expiration of his Real Madrid contract at the end of the 2005–06 season, the world of football already knew Zidane's second World Cup final was to be the last match of his career. Seven minutes into the 2006 World Cup final in Berlin, Zidane put France ahead with a Panenka-style penalty kick which struck the crossbar and bounced just over the goal line[86] to become only the fourth player in World Cup history to score in two different finals, along with Pelé, Paul Breitner, and Vavá, in addition to being tied for first place with Vavá, Pelé and Geoff Hurst with three World Cup final goals apiece, a record at the time, later broken by compatriot Kylian Mbappé in 2022. He almost scored a second goal during the first period of extra time but his header was saved by Italy's goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. Zidane was then sent off in the 110th minute of the game after headbutting Marco Materazzi in the chest,[87][88][89] so he did not participate in the penalty shootout, which Italy won 5–3.[90] This marked the 14th overall expulsion of Zidane's career, and joined him with Cameroon's Rigobert Song as the only players ever to be sent off during two separate World Cup tournaments.[91] Something curious about Zidane's expulsion was that the referee didn't even see the headbutting, so he went to ask the linesmen, who didn't see anything either. But the fourth referee did see the play, and convinced of his expression, he sent off the 10th of the French team. He also became the fourth player red-carded in a World Cup final, in addition to being the first sent off in extra time.[92] Zidane's actions made headlines all over the world, while in France Le Figaro called his head-butt "odious", and the front page of L'Équipe asked, "What should we tell our children, for whom you have become an example for ever? ... How could that happen to a man like you?"[85] Zidane had received plaudits for his performances during the tournament, with Pep Guardiola writing he exerts so much influence on the team that "France are never disorganised".[93] The day after the final, Zidane was awarded the Golden Ball as the player of the tournament.[94]

"The match you played last night was full of talent and professionalism. I know that you are sad and disappointed but what I want to tell you is that the whole country is extremely proud of you. You have honoured the country with your exceptional qualities and your fantastic fighting spirit, which was your strength in difficult times, but also in winning times."

—President of France, Jacques Chirac, pays tribute to Zidane in Paris after the 2006 World Cup.[85]

Upon his return to France, the Place de la Concorde in Paris was filled with thousands of fans waving flags and rhythmically chanting "Zizou! Zizou!", and tributes were led by the French president Jacques Chirac.[85] Chirac's words reflected the feeling of the French public, with polls done in the immediate wake of the incident showing support for Zidane: 61% of French people said they had already forgiven him for his actions while 52% said they understood them.[85] According to French journalist Philippe Auclair, Zidane's performances in the knock-out rounds were "ranked among his finest in a blue shirt."[85] As the player of the tournament, Zidane had given the team hope, with the French daily newspaper Libération stating, "For a month, France was dreaming with Zidane."[85] Zidane remained an icon to the French public, and one French writer stated, "It's good for us to see our national hero is fallible."[85] It was later revealed through interviews that Marco Materazzi had insulted Zidane's sister, which led to Zidane's heightened anger and reaction.[95] In 2010, Zidane said that he would "rather die than apologize" to Materazzi for the headbutt in the final,[96] but also admitted that he "could never have lived with himself" had he been allowed to remain on the pitch and help France win the match.[97] He later said, "If you look at the fourteen red cards I had in my career, twelve of them were a result of provocation. This isn't justification, this isn't an excuse, but my passion, temper and blood made me react."[98]

Following his red card in the final, Zidane retired from professional football and confirmed that he would not go back on his decision.[99] He was sentenced by FIFA to complete three days of community service with children in one of FIFA's humanitarian projects rather than three-match suspension for the red card given that he already retired.[100][101][102][103] Zidane ended up tying with Brazil's Cafu for the record for most cards given in World Cup matches, with six.[104]

Retirement

[edit]
Zidane playing a backheel during a game of futsal in 2008

Since his retirement, Zidane has regularly played for the Real Madrid Veterans team. He has also made several futsal appearances. In 2015 he played in a futsal tournament in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, during which an opposition player received a yellow card to much amusement for taking an in-match selfie with Zidane.[105] In an interview in June 2008, Zidane stated that he wanted to return to football, but that he had no immediate plans to do so.[106]

On 1 June 2009, Zidane was announced as the advisor to the president after Florentino Pérez was named president of Real Madrid for the second time.[107] He, along with general director Jorge Valdano and sporting director Miguel Pardeza, were to be the key decisionmakers on the sporting side of the club.[107] After France's dismal campaign in the 2010 World Cup, Zidane said that he did not plan to move into coaching any time soon.[108]

Qatar's 2022 World Cup bid committee announced in September 2010 that Zidane had been appointed as an ambassador for Qatar's attempt to host the 2022 World Cup.[109] After FIFA announced on 2 December 2010 that Qatar had won the bid to host the 2022 World Cup,[110] Zidane stated that he was "very pleased" with the outcome.[111] Zidane spoke of the message he was trying to convey in the campaign: "I was saying that football belonged to the whole world. I'm proud to have made my contribution to a new country getting the World Cup. Qatar and the entire Middle East as a whole deserves this event and that makes me happy. It's a victory for the Arab world."[112] Zidane has supported two Olympic bids for Paris, including the 2012 Summer Olympics which was narrowly won by London and later Paris' successful bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Paris also hosted the 2024 Summer Paralympics.[113]

Philanthropy

[edit]
Zidane at the Danone Nations Cup, 2008. A football tournament involving 2.5 million children from over 11,000 clubs from around the globe, Zidane is its ambassador.

On 24 February 2007, before a crowd of 10,000 fans at a match in northern Thailand for the Keuydaroon children's AIDS charity, Zidane scored the first goal and set up the second for a Malaysian teammate as the match ended 2–2. The event raised ฿260,000 ($7,750). This money paid for the building of two schools and 16 three-bedroom houses.[114]

On 19 November 2008, Zidane took part in the fifth annual Match Against Poverty in Málaga, Spain, which also ended in a 2–2 draw; he went scoreless but set up his team's second goal. He and Ronaldo, who collaborated in conceiving the yearly event to benefit the United Nations Development Programme, regularly captain their respective teams consisting of active footballers, other professional athletes and celebrities.[115] Zidane, a UN Goodwill Ambassador since 2001, stated before the game that "everyone can do something to make the world a better place."[116]

Zidane in the Match Against Poverty in Bern, March 2014

In June and July 2009, Zidane toured across Canada with stops in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. Although billed as Zidane and "Friends", the likes of which included Fabien Barthez and Samuel Eto'o, the exhibition matches featured local players. Some proceeds were given to UNICEF.[117]

On 6 June 2010, Zidane took part in the biennial charity event Soccer Aid. He played for the Rest of the World team, managed by former Liverpool and Celtic forward Kenny Dalglish against England alongside former Real Madrid teammate Luís Figo and Celtic legend Henrik Larsson. He played against former players such as Teddy Sheringham and Alan Shearer, as well as celebrities such as Hollywood actors Woody Harrelson, Mike Myers, Michael Sheen, chef Gordon Ramsay, actor Damian Lewis and singer Robbie Williams.[118] The match took place at Old Trafford, Manchester and was won by the Rest of the World for the first time, the winning penalty scored by Harrelson after a 2–2 draw.[118]

On 2 June 2013, Zidane took part in a charity match played at Old Trafford as part of the Manchester United Legends vs. Real Madrid Legends reverse fixture. The first leg took place in Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Part of a team that included the likes of Figo, Fernando Redondo and Manolo Sanchís, the fixture raised funds for the Manchester United Foundation.[119] The 12th Match against Poverty took place in Saint-Étienne, France, on Monday 20 April 2015, where Ronaldo and Zidane teamed up with other football stars against past and present players of French Ligue 1 club AS Saint-Étienne. According to UNDP, "two-thirds of all proceeds will go toward helping the hardest-hit countries of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone build back better from the Ebola epidemic."[120] In June 2018, Zidane reunited with his France 1998 World Cup winning teammates to play a charity game against an All-Star side which included Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. In a 3–2 win for France, Thierry Henry played a no-look one-two pass with Zidane before scoring, with Zidane then curling in a 25-yard free kick.[121]

Coaching career

[edit]
Zidane in 2013. He was the Real Madrid assistant coach for the 2013–14 season.

In November 2010, Zidane was appointed as a special adviser to Real Madrid's first team in response to an appeal made by then-Real Madrid coach José Mourinho for the former Real midfielder to work more closely with the team. In his new role, Zidane was expected to participate in Champions League events and functions and was also to travel with the first team on a regular basis and participate in pre-match gatherings, training sessions and meetings with the head coach.[122] In July 2011, it was announced that he would become Real Madrid's new sporting director.[123] In 2013, Zidane was appointed assistant coach to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.[124]

Real Madrid Castilla

[edit]

In June 2014, Real Madrid announced that Zidane would be the coach of Real Madrid's B team, Real Madrid Castilla.[125] On 29 August, the director of the Spanish National Football Coach Education Centre (CENAFE), Miguel Galán, reported Zidane for acting as Real Madrid Castilla's head coach without the necessary coaching badges.[126] According to Galán, "No one who has anything to do with the football world can be unaware that Zidane is acting as Real Madrid Castilla's head coach this season. It is a fait accompli that has been widely accepted, as shown by media reports, and Real Madrid do not deny it."[126] While the official match report for Castilla's opening game in the Segunda División B lists Santiago Sánchez as the Los Blancos' head coach and Zidane as his assistant, Galán states, "This hierarchy only exists on paper. The truth is the exact opposite: Zidane is acting as Real Madrid Castilla's head coach, while, with all due respect to him as a colleague, Mr Sánchez's role basically boils down to providing the badges."[126][127]

Real Madrid

[edit]
Zidane (right) with Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos lifting the 2016 UEFA Champions League trophy

On 4 January 2016, Real Madrid announced the dismissal of Rafael Benítez and on the same day Zidane was appointed the new head coach of the club on a two-and-a-half-year deal.[128] His first match as the club's new manager took place five days later, when Real Madrid beat Deportivo La Coruña 5–0 in a La Liga match. In his first El Clásico as a coach, held on 2 April at the Camp Nou, Zidane led his club to a 2–1 win over Barcelona, ending Barça's 39-match unbeaten run.[129] On 4 May, Zidane led Real Madrid to a place in the Champions League final by beating Manchester City 1–0 on aggregate.[130] In La Liga, Madrid ended up finishing second, with 90 points and just one point behind champions Barcelona.[131] On 28 May, Real Madrid's eleventh Champions League title was won after a 5–3 penalty shoot-out victory over Atlético Madrid, with the achievement being termed "La Undécima".[132][133] Zidane became the seventh man to win the European Cup both as a player and a coach and the second man (after Miguel Muñoz) to achieve the feat with Real Madrid. He also became the first French coach, except the French-Argentinian Helenio Herrera, to win the trophy.[134][135]

Zidane, with his Real Madrid players, standing to the right of Madrid mayor Manuela Carmena after Real had won their 33rd La Liga title, May 2017

Real Madrid began their 2016–17 campaign, which was to be Zidane's first full season in charge of the club, with a victory in the 2016 UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla.[136] On 10 December 2016, Madrid played their 35th-straight match without a loss, which set a new club record.[137] On 18 December 2016, the club defeated Japanese outfit Kashima Antlers 4–2 in the final of the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup.[138] With a 3–3 draw at Sevilla in the second leg of the Copa del Rey round of 16 on 12 January 2017, Madrid progressed to the quarter-finals with a 6–3 aggregate victory and extended its unbeaten run to 40 matches, breaking Barcelona's Spanish record of 39 matches unbeaten in all competitions from the previous season.[139] Their unbeaten streak ended after a 1–2 away loss against the same opposition in La Liga three days later.[140] The team then was knocked out of the Copa del Rey by Celta Vigo 3–4 on aggregate. In May of that year, Madrid won the league title for a record 33rd time, their first title in five years, accumulating 93 points in the process.[141] On 3 June 2017, the club's Champions League final win against Juventus resulted in Real Madrid being the first team to successfully defend their title in the UEFA Champions League era, and the first to win consecutive titles in the competition since Milan in 1989 and 1990, when the tournament was known as the European Cup.[142][143] Real Madrid's title was its 12th, extending the record, and its third in four years. The achievement is also known as "La Duodécima".[144] With Real's Champions League victory, Zidane became only the second manager to win the European Cup in his first two seasons in management, alongside fellow Real Madrid coach José Villalonga.[145]

Real kicked off the 2017–18 campaign by winning its second consecutive and fourth overall UEFA Super Cup in a 2–1 victory against Manchester United.[146] Five days later, Real Madrid beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou 3–1 in the first leg of the 2017 Supercopa de España and then defeated Barça 2–0 in the return leg, ending their 24 consecutive match scoring record in El Clásico matches and winning the second trophy of the season.[147] This title tied Zidane with Vicente del Bosque as the third most successful Real Madrid coach with seven titles, one short of Luis Molowny. This also meant that, at the time, Zidane had won as many titles in his coaching position in Real Madrid as games lost during his tenure. Zidane's success saw him named Best FIFA Men's Coach in 2017.[148] On 16 December 2017, Zidane won his eighth trophy as coach as Real beat Brazilian club Grêmio 1–0 in the FIFA Club World Cup final and became the first team to retain the trophy.[149] On 24 January 2018, Madrid was knocked out of the Copa del Rey at the quarter-final stage by Leganés on away goals. The team's league campaign was also a disappointment as Real collected only 76 points and finished third, 17 points behind champions Barcelona. Madrid fared far better in the Champions League, once again progressing to the final where they defeated Liverpool 3–1 to become the first club to win three straight titles in the Champions League era, as well as the first team to win three consecutive titles in the European Cup/Champions League since Bayern Munich in 1976. At that time, he became one of three managers, alongside Bob Paisley and Carlo Ancelotti, to win the European Cup three times, while also becoming the first coach to win the trophy in three consecutive seasons.[150] On 31 May, five days after the Champions League final, Zidane announced his resignation as Real Madrid coach, citing the club's "need for change" as his rationale for departing.[151][152]

Return to Real Madrid

[edit]

Following some poor results for Real Madrid in the months following Zidane's departure – culminating in elimination from the Copa del Rey at home to Barcelona, a league loss to the same opponent at the same venue which opened up a 12-point gap between the clubs, and an unexpected home 4–1 defeat to Ajax in the Champions League which brought the long run of success in that competition to an end, all within the space of a week – his former teammate Santiago Solari (who himself had only been in the post for five months, after Julen Lopetegui's equally brief spell in charge) was dismissed and Zidane returned as the Real Madrid head coach on 11 March 2019, on a contract until summer 2022.[153][154]

The 2019–20 season seemed a promising one, as Madrid went on a spending spree in the summer of 2019, signing Eden Hazard, Luka Jović, Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo, Reinier and other players for a total of more than €350 million. On 12 January 2020, Zidane guided Madrid to their first trophy in his second spell, with the club defeating cross-city rivals Atlético Madrid in a penalty shootout in the Supercopa de España final.[155] After a three-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020, La Liga was restarted in June and Madrid won ten games in a row to capture the team's 34th league title, collecting 87 points in total.[156] It was Zidane's second league title in his coaching career.[157] His collective mindset was hailed by international and Spanish media, as Real Madrid broke several records, including the number of scorers and maintaining their best league defensive record in 30 years, with 21 of his players managing to get on the scoresheet during the campaign.[158][159][160] Zidane left a second time on 27 May 2021 after going trophyless that season.[161]

He was approached to become coach of the United States after the end of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, but declined.[162]

Reception and legacy

[edit]

As a player

[edit]

"Zidane is the master. Over the past ten years, there's been no one like him, he has been the best player in the world."

"Technically, I think he is the king of what's fundamental in the game – control and passing. I don't think anyone can match him when it comes to controlling or receiving the ball."

Many football legends have acclaimed Zidane's skills and importance in the history of the sport, such as Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, who called Zidane "a monster" for his performance and abilities.[165] German coach Franz Beckenbauer stated, "Zidane is one of the greatest players in history, a truly magnificent player."[165] Italy manager Marcello Lippi, who also coached Zidane, opined, "I think Zidane is the greatest talent we've known in football these last twenty years."[165] Former England manager Kevin Keegan said, "You look at Zidane and think 'I've never seen a player quite like that.' What sets Zidane apart is the way he manipulates a football, buying himself space that isn't there. Add his vision and it makes him very special."[166] At the 1998 World Cup, Italian manager Cesare Maldini said, "I would give up five players to have Zidane in my squad."[167]

In terms of ball retention he was probably the greatest player of all time, blessed with such grace and supernatural awareness that he could play a game of real-life Pac-Man and never be caught.

— Rob Smyth of The Guardian on Zidane's ball control.[168]

Zidane's France home jersey from the 2006 World Cup. An elite playmaker, he wore number 10 for much of his international career.

Among his playing peers, Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimović commented, "Zidane was from another planet. When Zidane stepped onto the pitch, the ten other guys just got suddenly better. It is that simple."[169] David Beckham has described Zidane as "the greatest of all time",[170][171] Barcelona star Xavi has stated in a 2010 interview that Zidane was "best player in the '90s and early 2000s",[172] while Brazilian defender and former Real Madrid teammate Roberto Carlos has said of Zidane, "He is the best player I've seen. Supporters arrived earlier at the Bernabéu just to see him warm-up."[173] Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho stated, "Zidane is one of the best footballers of all time, one of my idols. He had such elegance and grace, a wonderful touch and superb vision."[174] Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard regards Zidane as "the best ever", and growing up he learned from his idol by "watching him on television and online for hours."[175][176]

Displaying skills with an array of moves such as his signature La Roulette pirouette, step overs, and close ball control, former Brazilian international Rivaldo stated, "His elegance of movement on the pitch and his skills are uncanny."[177] Journalist Sid Lowe wrote, "Zidane was football's answer to the Bolshoi Ballet. Zidane was elegance above all else."[178] In 2005, upon Zidane's return to the French national team, his teammate Thierry Henry stated, "In France, everybody realized that God exists, and that he is back in the French international team."[179] Zidane has been lauded by sportsmen outside football; having witnessed Zidane's goal against Deportivo La Coruña in January 2002, where he dragged the ball right then left, turning the defender inside out, before scoring with a left foot finish, basketball player Magic Johnson stated, "One of the most inspiring nights of my life. Zidane is a phenomenon."[180]

Labelled a "flawed genius" by ESPN, Zidane possessed an exceptional first touch, and was also known for his dribbling skills and elegance on the ball.[181][182][183] He was capable of using either foot, despite being naturally right-footed.[184][185] His technique and co-ordination enabled him to execute shots and volleys with extreme power and precision, in particular from outside the penalty area;[164][186] he was also a free kick and penalty kick specialist.[187][188] A renowned playmaker, Zidane's natural position was a classic number 10 behind the strikers.[181][189][190] He was also capable of playing as a second striker,[191][192][193] as a winger,[194] or as a central midfielder or deep-lying playmaker, due to his ability to orchestrate his team's attacking plays from deep with his vision and passing.[164][166][195][196] Thus, he was capable of both assisting and scoring goals, despite being neither the most prolific goalscorer.[197] While not known for his heading ability, his height and physical strength also allowed him to be effective in the air, and saw him score several crucial headers throughout his career.[198] He also drew praise from his managers for his defensive work-rate.[182][199] Despite not being the quickest player, he possessed good agility and acceleration.[182][196][199][10][200] He also had excellent positioning[198] and outstanding spatial awareness.[201] Although he had a reserved and humble character, his former Juventus managers Lippi and Ancelotti also praised Zidane for being a team player, on whom his teammates could rely.[189] Notwithstanding the acclaim that Zidane received from the media over his playing ability, he also drew criticism in the media over his temperament and discipline, and for his occasional violent conduct on the pitch, which led to Zidane picking up cards; he was also accused by the media for drifting in and out of games and for lacking leadership qualities, although he was able to establish himself as a consistent and decisive player, who was also an influential captain at international level throughout his career.[10][202]

Zidane has been named FIFA World Player of the Year three times, a feat achieved only by Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.[203] In 2002, ESPN described Zidane as "the greatest player in the world in the world's biggest game".[180] In a 2002 FIFA poll, Zidane was selected in the FIFA World Cup Dream Team.[204] In 2004, he was voted UEFA Best European Player of the Past 50 Years, and was named in the FIFA 100 list of the world's greatest living players.[205] In a 2004 poll conducted by French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, Zidane was voted as "the most popular Frenchman of all time".[10] In 2014, in a poll carried out by French TV channel TF1, Zidane was voted as the best player in the history of the French league.[206] In 2016, in a study led by French newspaper Le Parisien, Zidane was named "best French player of all time".[207]

As a coach

[edit]
Zidane at a press conference during the 2017 FIFA Club World Cup. As head coach of Real Madrid he won the UEFA Champions League an unprecedented three times in a row.

Despite establishing himself as one of the most successful coaches of his era and in the history of Real Madrid,[A] Zidane's time at Real Madrid was considered by some to be shadowed by a partial amount of luck.[B] His tactical philosophy has been praised by many.[208][209][210][211] Zidane's tactical style, characterized by its formation flexibility and attacking football, as well as his ability to unite the dressing room, have been positively compared to Carlo Ancelotti's coaching method.[212][213][214] His use of in-game substitutions was particularly praised, as many of his substitutes led to victories, such as introducing Marco Asensio and Lucas Vázquez in order to provide pace and width against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League to overturn a 1–0 deficit into a 3–1 victory. Similarly, his use of Gareth Bale as a substitute in the 2018 UEFA Champions League Final proved crucial; Bale scored two goals after being brought on, turning a 1–1 tie into a 3–1 Madrid victory. It is also noted that his team focused on attacking through the flanks,[215] while he is credited for repopularising the 4–4–2 diamond formation in contemporary football.[216]

On the other hand, some consider that Zidane's role was more focused in grinding out results and uniting the dressing room, rather than having a fixed tactical scheme.[217][218] Zidane emphasised the importance of players' physical levels and preferred to choose impactful players over a defined system.[219] During his time at Real Madrid, he used several formations, including the 4–3–3, the 4–2–3–1, the 4–4–2, and the 3–5–2,[220] in order to find the system that best suited his players, and has been credited with using "simple systems", "so that his players have the freedom needed to prove their superiority."[221] Zidane has been praised for his balanced approach as a coach, and for having the leadership skills and personability to manage and motivate several world class players, create a good team environment, foster professional relationships, and a strong winning mentality; he has also demonstrated an ability to rotate players and get the best out his team, which has played a key role in his success. In 2019, he commented, "You ask me about two players but what interests me is the group. Karim is important for the team, not just for his goals. Casemiro gives a lot of balance, but not only that. Everyone contributes something to the team in their own way on the field".[222] Regarding his coaching role at Real Madrid, Zidane commented in 2018: "When you work with high-quality players, they know how to manage those periods of games when you’re not playing well, and they get things back on track very quickly. My job was to keep people calm!"[223] Two of his main influences as a manager are his own former managers Marcello Lippi and Carlo Ancelotti.[212][224]

[edit]
Zidane's Z5 Group is a sporting complex made up of five a side football pitches sponsored by Adidas.

Zidane has had endorsements with many companies, including Adidas, Lego, France Telecom, Orange, Audi, Volvic and Christian Dior. These sponsorship deals earned him €8.6 million on top of his €6.4 million Real Madrid salary in 2006, totalling €15 million ($20.4 million), which made him the sixth-highest paid footballer.[225][226] In 2004, Forbes magazine listed his earnings of $15.8 million for the previous 12 months.[227] In May 2010, Zidane appeared in a commercial for Louis Vuitton, indulging in a game of table football with Pelé and Diego Maradona.[228] Zidane features as the cover star of the Ultimate Edition of the FIFA video game FIFA 20.[229]

In 2005, filmmakers Philippe Parreno and Douglas Gordon filmed a documentary Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait, which follows Zidane during an entire match, filmed with 17 cameras. Scottish post-rock band Mogwai provided the soundtrack. The documentary was part of the 2009 Full Frame Documentary Film Festival.[230]

Screening of Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait documentary at the Albert Hall, Manchester with rock band Mogwai, who provided the soundtrack, on stage

In November 2006, Zidane toured Bangladesh as the guest of Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus.[231] He also visited the Algerian birthplace of his parents and met with Algerian president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who gave him an official reception.[232] In 2012, French-Algerian artist Adel Abdessemed unveiled a bronze sculpture depicting Zidane's headbutt of Marco Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup Final.[233]

On 5 November 2006, Zidane appeared in the American animated sitcom Family Guy, seen headbutting an old lady in the episode "Saving Private Brian" as a parody of his headbutt on Materazzi.[234] The infamous headbutt has also been the subject of a lyrical essay by the Belgian novelist Jean-Philippe Toussaint entitled La Mélancolie de Zidane (2006).[235]

In 2010, footage of Zidane appeared in the "Waka Waka" music video by Shakira, which shows him celebrating France winning the 1998 World Cup.[236] In 2014, Australian sports presenter Les Murray collaborated with the band Vaudeville Smash and performed a Zidane tribute song, the accompanying video featuring four footballers performing ball tricks in Zidane masks, one of whom ends up headbutting a nightwatchman.[237][238] In 2016, Zidane was ranked one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan, which noted: "[Zidane's] modest character has endeared him to the wider public."[239]

Personal life

[edit]
Zidane's parents' house in the village of Aguemoune in Algeria, which he visited on 15 December 2006[240]

At the age of 17, Zidane met his future wife, Véronique Fernández (born in Aveyron of Spanish descent),[241] while playing for Cannes in the 1988–89 season. Married in 1994, they have four sons: Enzo Zidane (born 24 March 1995),[242] Luca Zidane (born 13 May 1998),[243] Théo Zidane (born 18 May 2002),[244] and Elyaz Zidane (born 26 December 2005).[245]

He has described himself as a "non-practising Muslim", and is open about his religion and spirituality.[10][11]

On 12 July 2019, his elder brother Farid died of cancer at the age of 54.[246][247]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[citation needed][248]
Club Season League Cup[a] Europe Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Cannes 1988–89 Division 1 2 0 0 0 — — 2 0
1989–90 Division 1 0 0 0 0 — — 0 0
1990–91 Division 1 28 1 3 0 — — 31 1
1991–92 Division 1 31 5 3 0 4 0 — 38 5
Totals 61 6 6 0 4 0 0 0 71 6
Bordeaux 1992–93 Division 1 35 10 4 1 — — 39 11
1993–94 Division 1 34 6 3 0 6 2 — 43 8
1994–95 Division 1 37 6 5 1 4 1 — 46 8
1995–96 Division 1 33 6 3 0 15 6 — 51 12
Totals 139 28 15 2 25 9 0 0 179 39
Juventus 1996–97 Serie A 29 5 2 0 10 2 3[b] 0 44 7
1997–98 Serie A 32 7 5 1 11 3 1[c] 0 49 11
1998–99 Serie A 25 2 5 0 10 0 1[c] 0 41 2
1999–2000 Serie A 32 4 3 1 6 0 — 41 5
2000–01 Serie A 33 6 2 0 4 0 — 39 6
Totals 151 24 17 2 41 5 5 0 214 31
Real Madrid 2001–02 La Liga 31 7 9 2 9 3 2[d] 0 51 12
2002–03 La Liga 33 9 1 0 14 3 2[e] 0 50 12
2003–04 La Liga 33 6 7 1 10 3 2[d] 0 52 10
2004–05 La Liga 29 6 1 0 10 0 — 40 6
2005–06 La Liga 29 9 5 0 4 0 — 38 9
Total 155 37 23 3 47 9 6 0 230 49
Career total 506 95 61 7 117 23 11 0 695 125
  1. ^ Includes Coupe de la Ligue.
  2. ^ Two appearances in UEFA Super Cup, one appearance in Intercontinental Cup.
  3. ^ a b Appearance in Supercoppa Italiana.
  4. ^ a b Appearance(s) in Supercopa de España.
  5. ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, one appearance in Intercontinental Cup.

International

[edit]
Appearances and goals by year and competition
Team Year Competitive Friendly Total
Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
France[249][250] 1994 1[a] 0 1 2 2 2
1995 5[b] 2 1 0 6 2
1996 5[c] 0 7 1 12 1
1997 — 8 1 8 1
1998 8[d] 2 7 3 15 5
1999 3[e] 1 3 0 6 1
2000 5[f] 2 8 2 13 4
2001 — 8 2 8 2
2002 4[g] 0 5 1 9 1
2003 4[h] 3 3 0 7 3
2004 4[i] 3 3 1 7 4
2005 4[j] 1 1 1 5 2
2006 6[k] 3 4 0 10 3
Total 49 17 59 14 108 31
  1. ^ Appearance in the UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying
  2. ^ Appearances in the UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying
  3. ^ Appearances at UEFA Euro 1996
  4. ^ Five appearances and two goals in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, three appearances in the UEFA Euro 2000 qualifying
  5. ^ Appearances in the UEFA Euro 2000 qualifying
  6. ^ Appearances at UEFA Euro 2000
  7. ^ One appearance in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, three appearances in the UEFA Euro 2004 qualifying
  8. ^ Appearances in the UEFA Euro 2004 qualifying
  9. ^ Appearances at UEFA Euro 2004
  10. ^ Appearances in the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification
  11. ^ Appearances in the 2006 FIFA World Cup
Scores and results list France's goal tally first.
Key
‡ Indicates goal was scored from a penalty kick
Indicates won the match
Indicates the match ended in draw
Refers to unofficial matches

International goals scored by Zinedine Zidane
No. Cap Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1 1 17 August 1994 Stade Chaban-Delmas, Bordeaux, France  Czech Republic 1–2 2–2 Friendly
2 2–2
3 6 6 September 1995 Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps, Auxerre, France  Azerbaijan 7–0 10–0 UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying
4 7 11 October 1995 Stadionul Steaua, Bucharest, Romania  Romania 3–1 3–1 UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying
5 10 21 February 1996 Stade des Costières, Nîmes, France  Greece 3–1 3–1 Friendly
6 26 11 June 1997 Parc des Princes, Paris, France  Italy 1–0 2–2 1997 Tournoi de France
7 29 28 January 1998 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Spain 1–0 1–0 Friendly
8 30 25 February 1998 Stade Vélodrome, Marseille, France  Norway 2–1 3–3 Friendly
9 32 27 May 1998 Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco  Belgium 1–0 1–0 1998 King Hassan II Cup
10 39 12 July 1998 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Brazil 1–0 3–0 1998 FIFA World Cup final
11 2–0
12 47 8 September 1999 Hrazdan Stadium, Yerevan, Armenia  Armenia 2–1 3–2 UEFA Euro 2000 qualifying
13 50 23 February 2000 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Poland 1–0 1–0 Friendly
14 53 4 June 2000 Stade Mohamed V, Casablanca, Morocco  Japan 1–0 2–2 2000 King Hassan II Cup
15 57 25 June 2000 Jan Breydel Stadium, Bruges, Belgium  Spain 1–0 2–1 UEFA Euro 2000
16 58 28 June 2000 King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels, Belgium  Portugal 2–1‡ 2–1 UEFA Euro 2000
17 63 27 February 2001 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Germany 1–0 1–0 Friendly
18 64 24 March 2001 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Japan 1–0‡ 5–0 Friendly
19 72 27 March 2002 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Scotland 1–0 5–0 Friendly
20 81 29 March 2003 Stade Bollaert-Delelis, Lens, Pas-de-Calais, France  Malta 4–0 6–0 UEFA Euro 2004 qualifying
21 6–0‡
22 82 2 April 2003 Stadio Renzo Barbera, Palermo, Italy  Israel 2–0 2–1 UEFA Euro 2004 qualifying
23 89 6 June 2004 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Ukraine 1–0 1–0 Friendly
24 90 13 June 2004 Estádio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal  England 1–1 2–1 UEFA Euro 2004
25 2–1‡
26 92 21 June 2004 Estádio Cidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal  Switzerland 1–0 3–1 UEFA Euro 2004
27 94 17 August 2005 Stade de la Mosson, Montpellier, France  Ivory Coast 2–0 3–0 Friendly
28 98 12 October 2005 Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France  Cyprus 1–0 4–0 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification
29 105 27 June 2006 Niedersachsenstadion, Hannover, Germany  Spain 3–1 3–1 2006 FIFA World Cup
30 107 5 July 2006 Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany  Portugal 1–0‡ 1–0 2006 FIFA World Cup
31 108 9 July 2006 Olympiastadion, Berlin, Germany  Italy 1–0‡ 1–1
(3–5 p)		 2006 FIFA World Cup final

Managerial statistics

[edit]
As of 22 May 2021
Managerial record by team and tenure
Team From To Record Ref
G W D L GF GA GD Win %
Real Madrid Castilla 25 June 2014 4 January 2016 57 26 17 14 88 58 +30 045.61 [251]
Real Madrid 4 January 2016 31 May 2018 149 105 28 16 398 163 +235 070.47 [252]
11 March 2019 27 May 2021[161] 114 69 25 20 207 104 +103 060.53 [253]
Career totals 320 200 70 50 693 325 +368 062.50

Honours

[edit]

Player

[edit]

Bordeaux[17]

Juventus[17]

Real Madrid[17]

France U16

France[17]

Individual

Manager

[edit]

Real Madrid

Individual

Orders

[edit]

Records

[edit]

As a player

[edit]

As a manager

[edit]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Zinedine Zidane

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from Grokipedia
Zinedine Zidane (born 23 June 1972) is a French former professional footballer and manager, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport due to his exceptional vision, technique, and elegance as an attacking . Born in to Algerian immigrant parents Smaïl and Malika, who had settled in the city's district—a tough, impoverished neighborhood known for high —Zidane developed his skills playing street football before joining local clubs. His professional career began with in 1989, followed by stints at (1992–1996), where he helped win the 1995 Intertoto Cup, and (1996–2001), with whom he secured two titles (1996–97, 1997–98) and reached two finals. In 2001, Zidane transferred to Real Madrid for a then-world-record fee of €77.5 million, forming part of the "" era and contributing to the 2002 victory with his iconic volley in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, alongside winning in 2003. Internationally, he debuted for in 1994, earning 108 caps and scoring 31 goals by his retirement in 2006; Zidane captained the team to victory in the , scoring two headers in the final against , and the 2000 , where he was named Player of the Tournament. His individual accolades include the in 1998 and three World Player of the Year awards (1998, 2000, 2003). Zidane's playing career ended dramatically at the , where he was sent off for headbutting Italy's , but his legacy extended into . Appointed Real Madrid's manager in January 2016 after coaching the club's , Zidane led the senior side to unprecedented success, becoming the first coach to win the three consecutive times (2016, 2017, 2018), along with the (2016, 2017), FIFA Club World Cup (2016, 2017), and title in 2019–20 during his second stint (2019–2021). He resigned twice, first in 2018 citing a lack of and again in 2021 due to similar reasons, amassing 174 wins in 263 matches overall with the club. Following his departure from Real Madrid in 2021, Zidane entered a hiatus but, as of 2025, is expected to become the head coach of the France national team after the . Beyond the pitch, Zidane has been involved in philanthropy, including co-founding the initiative in 2003 with to support underprivileged children through education and sport, reflecting his own roots in Marseille's challenging environment.

Early life

Family and childhood

Zinedine Zidane was born on 23 June 1972 in , , as the youngest of five children in a of Algerian Kabyle Berber descent. His parents, Smaïl and Malika Zidane, immigrated from the Kabylie region of , first settling in before moving to in the mid-1960s amid economic hardships following the of . Smaïl worked long night shifts as a warehouseman to support the , while Malika managed the household; their siblings included Farid, Lila, Djamel, and Nourredine. The Zidane family resided in a cramped apartment in , a northern suburb known for its modernist tower blocks, high unemployment, drug issues, and diverse immigrant community of around 7,000 residents. Despite the area's challenges, the family maintained a sense of stability through Smaïl's emphasis on hard work and discipline, which Zidane later credited for shaping his character. As a child, Zidane was nicknamed "Yaz" by his siblings and displayed a gentle yet energetic personality, often playing in the narrow streets of the neighborhood. Zidane's childhood was marked by an early passion for football, introduced at age five while playing with neighborhood children on Place Tartane, a small 80-yard-long pitch in . He initially practiced with his brother Farid before focusing on soccer, joining local club AS Foresta at age nine and honing his skills amid the rough environment that fostered resilience. Influenced by stars like —after whom he later named his eldest son—Zidane's street games laid the foundation for his technical prowess and love of the sport.

Introduction to football

Zinedine Zidane, born on June 23, 1972, in , , to Algerian immigrant parents, grew up in the challenging neighborhood, where football became an early escape and passion. From the age of five, he began playing the sport informally with local children on the streets, using improvised goals like piles of clothes or bags, honing his skills amid the urban environment of estates. This street football culture in Marseille's immigrant communities shaped his initial development, emphasizing creativity and ball control in confined spaces. At around age nine, Zidane joined his first organized club, AS Foresta, in 1981, marking the start of his structured youth involvement. He progressed quickly, moving to US Saint-Henri in 1982 at age ten, a local team from the area that provided better facilities and competition. By , at age 11, he transferred to SO Septèmes-les-Vallons, where he spent three years refining his abilities in regional youth leagues. These early club experiences were crucial, as Zidane balanced school and training while standing out for his vision and technique despite his slender build. Zidane's breakthrough came at age 14 in 1986, when he was scouted by recruiter Jean Varraud during a training camp. This led to his signing with Cannes' youth academy, where he spent three years developing under professional coaching, transitioning from amateur play to competitive youth football. By 1989, shortly before turning 17, he made his senior debut for Cannes in against on May 18. His rapid ascent from street games to elite youth ranks underscored the talent that would define his career.

Professional playing career

Early career at Cannes and Bordeaux

Zinedine Zidane joined the youth academy in 1989 at the age of 16, having been scouted from his local club in . He made his professional debut for the senior team on 18 May 1989, at age 16, in a match against , where he came on as a substitute. Over three seasons with (1989–1992), Zidane appeared in 61 matches and scored 6 goals, gradually establishing himself as a creative known for his vision and technical skill. His development accelerated under assistant coach during the 1991–1992 campaign, when Zidane became a central figure in the team's attack, helping secure a fourth-place finish in and qualification for the UEFA Cup—the club's best league position in over a decade. Despite his promise, were relegated to at the end of the 1991–1992 season, prompting Zidane's departure on a free transfer to in July 1992. At Bordeaux, Zidane formed a formidable midfield partnership with compatriots and , contributing to the team's resurgence in French football over four seasons (1992–1996). In 179 total appearances across all competitions, he scored 39 goals and provided numerous assists, showcasing his elegance, passing range, and ability to dictate play. His performances earned him international recognition, including a call-up to the French national team. Bordeaux's most notable success during Zidane's tenure came in European competition. The team won the 1995 Intertoto Cup, a precursor to UEFA tournaments, with Zidane playing a key role in their qualification for the UEFA Cup. In the 1995–1996 UEFA Cup, Zidane was instrumental in Bordeaux's run to the semi-finals, the club's deepest European progress at the time. He provided a deflected free-kick assist for Dugarry's equalizer and set up the winning goal in a 3–0 second-leg victory over AC Milan in the quarter-finals, overturning a 2–0 deficit to advance on aggregate and eliminating the defending European champions. Bordeaux then defeated Slavia Prague in the semi-finals but lost to Bayern Munich in the final, with Zidane suspended for both legs due to accumulated bookings. These achievements solidified Zidane's reputation as one of Europe's emerging talents, leading to his high-profile transfer to Juventus in 1996.

Juventus

Zinedine Zidane joined Juventus from in July 1996 for a transfer fee of €3.5 million, marking a significant step in his career to one of Europe's top clubs. Over the next five seasons, he established himself as a central figure in the midfield, known for his elegant control, vision, and ability to dictate play, contributing to the team's dominance in Italian football. In his debut season (1996–97), Zidane played 29 league matches, scoring 5 goals, and helped Juventus secure the title, ending a brief drought for the club. The following year (1997–98), he featured in 32 league games with 7 goals, again pivotal in retaining the as Juventus finished six points ahead of second-placed . In across his five seasons, Zidane made 151 appearances and scored 24 goals; overall in all competitions, he appeared 212 times and scored 31 goals, with his creative influence evident in later seasons where he recorded up to 14 assists in 2000–01 alone. Zidane's impact extended to European and global success, including victory in the 1996 against Paris Saint-Germain (6–1 aggregate) shortly after his arrival, where he scored in the second leg. He also lifted the 1996 Intercontinental Cup, defeating River Plate 1–0 in , and the 1997 with a 1–0 win over . However, despite reaching the finals in 1997 (losing 3–1 to ) and 1998 (losing 1–0 to Real Madrid), Juventus fell short of the trophy in both instances, with Zidane's performances—such as his masterful display in the 1998 semi-final against —unable to overcome defensive lapses. Individually, Zidane's excellence at Juventus earned him major accolades, including the 1998 Ballon d'Or after a standout year that included France's World Cup triumph, and the FIFA World Player of the Year award in both 1998 and 2000. His time at the club solidified his reputation as one of the world's elite playmakers, blending technical finesse with tactical intelligence under coaches Marcello Lippi and Carlo Ancelotti. By 2001, after five trophy-laden years, Zidane departed for Real Madrid in a world-record €77.5 million transfer, leaving a legacy of two Serie A titles and enhanced European pedigree for Juventus.

Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane transferred to Real Madrid from Juventus on July 9, 2001, for a world-record fee of €77.5 million, signing a four-year contract as a key component of club president Florentino Pérez's Galácticos project, which aimed to assemble a superstar lineup including players like Luís Figo and Ronaldo. Zidane made his debut for the club on July 28, 2001, in a 4-1 friendly victory over Sporting de Gijón, where he provided an assist and demonstrated his visionary playmaking from midfield. In his debut season (2001-02), Zidane played a pivotal role in Real Madrid's triumph, appearing in 13 matches and scoring three goals, including the iconic left-footed volley in the final against Bayer Leverkusen on May 15, 2002, which secured a 2-1 victory and the club's ninth European Cup title. The team also won the and the that year, with Zidane contributing to both victories through his elegant control and precise passing. The following season (2002-03) saw Zidane help Real Madrid secure the title, their first in four years, as the club finished eight points ahead of rivals Deportivo La Coruña; he featured in 33 league matches, scoring five goals and providing numerous assists to orchestrate the attack. Zidane also won the in 2001 and 2003, starting in both finals and exemplifying his composure under pressure. Over his five seasons at Real Madrid from 2001 to 2006, Zidane made 227 appearances across all competitions, scoring 49 goals and recording 67 assists, establishing himself as the creative fulcrum of the midfield with his blend of technical skill, vision, and leadership. His performances earned him the World Player of the Year award in , recognizing his global impact during that period. Zidane announced his retirement from professional football in April 2006, intending to conclude his career after the , with his final club match being a 0-1 UEFA Champions League semi-final loss to on May 17, 2006. Despite the controversial in the World Cup final that led to his sending off, his Real Madrid tenure solidified his legacy as one of the club's greatest imports, blending artistry with trophy-winning success.

International career

Early years and breakthrough

Zinedine Zidane made his debut for the national team on 17 August 1994, coming on as a substitute in a friendly match against the in , which ended in a 2–2 draw. Entering the game in the 63rd minute with trailing 2–0, the 22-year-old scored twice in quick succession—in the 85th and 88th minutes—with a long-range strike and a volley, announcing his arrival on the international stage. This brace marked an immediate impact under coach , who had called up Zidane to replace the injured . Over the following two years, Zidane solidified his place in the squad during the qualification campaign for , making 13 appearances and contributing to 's qualification with his vision and technical prowess in midfield. He started all group stage matches at the tournament in , where topped their group after a 1–0 win over , a 1–1 draw with , and a 3–0 victory against . Zidane did not score during the competition but played a central role as the team's playmaker, succeeding , and helped Les Bleus advance to the quarter-finals with a 1–0 win over the after a goalless draw; he successfully converted his spot-kick. In the semi-finals, lost 1–0 to the on penalties following extra time, with Zidane again scoring in the shootout, though the team was eliminated. Despite the lack of goals, his performances showcased emerging leadership and control, earning him recognition as a key figure in 's run to the final four. Zidane's true breakthrough came at the , hosted by , where he emerged as the tournament's standout player and led Les Bleus to their first global title. Missing one group match due to suspension, he started the others, scoring two crucial headers in the final against on 12 July 1998 at the , opening the scoring in the 27th minute from a corner and adding a second just before halftime, securing a 3–0 victory. These goals, his only ones of the tournament, propelled to glory and symbolized his transformation into a world-class icon, earning him a place in the All-Star Team and the later that year. By the end of the , Zidane had made 45 international appearances, cementing his status as the heartbeat of a multi-cultural French side.

1998 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2000

Zidane's international prominence surged during the , hosted by , where he emerged as a central figure in Les Bleus' campaign despite a turbulent start. In the second group stage match against on June 18, Zidane was sent off for violent conduct after stamping on an opponent, resulting in a suspension that sidelined him for the subsequent group game against . Despite his absence, advanced from with victories in those matches, setting the stage for Zidane's return in the knockout rounds. Upon rejoining the team for the round of 16 clash against on June 28, Zidane contributed to a 1-0 victory secured by Laurent Blanc's extra-time goal, though he did not score. In the quarterfinal against on July 3, Zidane started but was unable to break the deadlock in a 0-0 draw, with prevailing 4-3 on penalties after his teammate saved a crucial shot. Zidane's influence grew in the semifinal against on July 8, where he assisted Emmanuel Petit's goal in a 2-1 win, helping reach their first World Cup final. These performances underscored his growing command in midfield, blending vision and tenacity to orchestrate play. The pinnacle came in the final against on at the , where Zidane delivered one of the tournament's defining displays. Despite 's favoritism and Ronaldo's presence, Zidane scored twice with headers from corners delivered by —in the 27th minute and just before —giving a 2-0 lead. held firm even after Marcel Desailly's red card in the second half, with Petit adding a third in stoppage time for a 3-0 triumph and 's inaugural title. Zidane's brace not only neutralized 's attack but also symbolized national unity, earning him a place in the tournament's All-Star Team. Building on this momentum, Zidane captained France to victory at UEFA Euro 2000 in Belgium and the Netherlands, where he was named Player of the Tournament for his masterful midfield dominance. France topped Group D with Zidane scoring a stunning free-kick in their 3-0 opening win over Denmark on June 11, showcasing his technical finesse and set-piece expertise. In the quarterfinal against Spain on June 25, he provided an assist in a 2-1 victory, maintaining France's composure against a resilient opponent. The semifinal against on June 28 epitomized Zidane's clutch ability, as he converted a 117th-minute penalty in extra time to secure a 2-1 win after had equalized Thierry Henry's opener. Hampered by a injury sustained earlier, Zidane's composure under pressure propelled to the final. In the July 2 decider against at , Zidane again proved decisive, scoring a penalty in the 55th minute to halve Italy's 2-0 lead and then heading an equalizer in the 94th minute from a cross, forcing extra time. Although netted the winner in the 103rd minute for a 2-1 victory, Zidane's two goals in the final highlighted his enduring brilliance and cemented 's status as European champions. Across both tournaments, Zidane's contributions—three goals and two at Euros—elevated him to global icon status, with his elegance and leadership inspiring a generation while attributing France's successes to collective multi-ethnic harmony. UEFA technical observer praised Zidane's artistry as unparalleled, noting his ability to "print his signature on the tournament."

Later tournaments and retirement

Following his triumphs at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and , Zidane's international career entered a challenging phase marked by injuries, inconsistent team performances, and his eventual farewell. In the held in and , Zidane was sidelined for France's first two group stage matches due to a injury sustained in a pre-tournament friendly against on May 26, 2002. Without him, defending champions France suffered a shock 1-0 opening loss to on May 31, followed by a 0-0 draw with on June 6, leaving their progression in jeopardy. Zidane returned for the decisive Group A clash against on June 11, playing with a strapped but unable to inspire a turnaround; France lost 2-0, with goals from and , resulting in an ignominious group-stage elimination—the first for a defending champion since in 1966. Zidane recorded no goals or assists in his single appearance, highlighting the team's overreliance on his creativity amid a broader decline in form. Zidane briefly retired from international duty after the disappointment, announcing his decision in August 2004 following France's quarter-final exit at UEFA Euro 2004. However, he reversed course in 2005 at the urging of coach Raymond Domenech, returning for qualifiers ahead of the 2006 World Cup. At Euro 2004 in Portugal, Zidane captained France and delivered a standout individual campaign, scoring three goals to share the top-scorer honor with Milan Baroš, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Jon Dahl Tomasson. His most memorable contribution came in the opening Group D match against England on June 13, where he netted a stunning free-kick equalizer in the 90th minute and converted a penalty winner in stoppage time (90+3'), turning a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 victory. France topped the group with seven points from wins over England (2-1) and Switzerland (3-1, Zidane's third goal a header) and a 2-2 draw with Croatia, but their tournament ended in the quarter-finals with a 1-0 upset loss to Greece on June 25, courtesy of Angelos Charisteas's header. Zidane's international swansong came at the in , where the 34-year-old captain led a revitalized to the final. He scored the tournament's opening goal with a Panenka-style penalty against on June 13 and was instrumental in key victories, including a 1-0 quarter-final win over defending champions on July 1—where his visionary play set up Thierry Henry's goal—and a 1-0 semi-final triumph against on July 5. reached the final against on July 9, but Zidane's career ended in controversy: after verbal provocation from , he headbutted the Italian defender in the chest during extra time (110th minute), earning a straight red card and leaving his team to play short-handed. prevailed 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Zidane's absence proving costly in the shootout. Despite the incident, he was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player based on votes cast before extra time. Zidane had announced prior to the tournament that it would be his last, retiring with 108 caps and 31 goals for , cementing his status as a national icon despite the bittersweet conclusion.

Retirement from playing

Transition and immediate activities

Following his dramatic exit from the , where he was sent off for headbutting Italy's , Zidane faced a three-match suspension from all football-related activities imposed by . This ban, which extended into his retirement, briefly sidelined him from any involvement in the sport, allowing a period of reflection amid the global media scrutiny. In the immediate weeks after the tournament, Zidane contributed to 's humanitarian projects, dedicating three days to initiatives supporting underprivileged communities, marking his early shift toward off-field contributions. Zidane has since reflected that he had "no desire at all" to pursue upon retiring at age 34, preferring instead to take a deliberate break from professional football to spend time with his wife, Véronique, and their four sons. This hiatus, lasting several years, focused on personal preparation for future endeavors, as he noted the need to "prepare" after leaving early in his . During this time, he largely stayed out of the spotlight, avoiding formal roles in the game while gradually engaging in selective public appearances. His immediate post-retirement activities emphasized , building on his longstanding commitment to social causes. As a global ambassador for , Zidane helped launch a shelter for handicapped in in November 2007, providing healthcare, education, and family support services to address the plight of an estimated 200,000 to 1 million in the city. He also participated in charity exhibition matches with Real Madrid veterans, using his influence to raise funds for disadvantaged youth, while continuing sporadic involvement in FIFA-backed humanitarian efforts. These initiatives underscored Zidane's transition from on-pitch stardom to advocacy, prioritizing global child welfare over a rushed return to competitive football. By 2009, with Florentino Pérez's return as Real Madrid president, Zidane re-engaged with the club in a non-playing capacity, accepting an advisory role to assist in strategic decisions and player development. This marked the beginning of his deeper immersion back into the sport's administrative side, setting the stage for his eventual coaching career while maintaining a low-profile approach during the interim years.

Philanthropy

Zinedine Zidane has been actively involved in philanthropy since retiring from professional football, focusing primarily on children's welfare, alleviation, and initiatives, often leveraging his fame through ambassador roles and charity events. As a for the (UNDP) for over 15 years starting in 2001, Zidane co-initiated the in 2005 alongside fellow footballer , an annual charity football event that has raised millions to support UNDP's efforts against and inequality in vulnerable communities worldwide. The initiative, endorsed by and , has funded projects in education, , and economic empowerment, with Zidane participating in multiple editions, including one in in 2007 that drew over 20,000 attendees. In 2011, he visited to promote women's and youth empowerment programs, emphasizing community-driven solutions to . Zidane serves as an ambassador for the European Leukodystrophy Association (ELA), a role he has held for 24 years as of 2024, providing support to families affected by rare genetic diseases like . In this capacity, he has participated in auctions, such as a November 2024 Christie's Geneva event for ELA that raised over CHF 18 million (US$20.6 million) through luxury watch sales, and attended award ceremonies to raise awareness among children and families. His involvement extends to symbolic initiatives, like the 2018 "Crystalfoot" art piece by created in his honor to benefit ELA's research and support programs. In 2007, Zidane launched a residential home for handicapped street children in , , as part of a Danone worldwide initiative aimed at aiding disadvantaged youth through education and rehabilitation services. The project provided shelter, medical care, and vocational training for up to 50 children, marking one of several international efforts Zidane undertook with corporate partners to address child homelessness and . Zidane co-founded the Zinedine Zidane Foundation with his father, Smaïl, to assist underprivileged families and children in , his ancestral homeland, allocating approximately €3 million in funding for educational and humanitarian projects. The foundation has responded to crises, including a 2020 donation of five resuscitation kits, ventilators, and monitors to hospitals in during the , and €2 million in 2021 to support victims with rebuilding and relief efforts. Zidane has also supported UNICEF through participation in high-profile charity matches, such as the 2015 UNICEF Match for Children at , where he joined and other stars to raise funds for and emergency aid, though he withdrew from the event following the Paris attacks. Earlier, in 2010, he played in , a biennial UNICEF-backed game that generated proceeds for child health programs in and . In 2006, he visited a reconstructed pediatric center at an SOS Children's Village in , highlighting his commitment to in the region. Zidane continued this involvement with appearances in charity football matches, including Universe Football events in March 2024 and October 2025, raising funds for humanitarian causes.

Coaching career

Real Madrid Castilla

Zinedine Zidane was appointed head coach of , the club's reserve team, on 25 June 2014, succeeding Manolo Díaz and marking his first role as a senior manager after serving as an assistant coach for the Real Madrid first team under . His primary objective was to nurture young talents from the club's academy for potential integration into the senior squad, emphasizing technical development and tactical discipline in the third-tier . In the 2014–15 season, Zidane's Castilla side competed in Group I of , finishing sixth in the group. Under his management from late August, the team recorded 7 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses in 17 matches, with an average of 1.47 points per match. Despite a mid-table performance that showcased improved team cohesion, the team did not qualify for the promotion playoffs (top four advance). This season highlighted Zidane's ability to manage a youthful squad averaging around 20 years old. The 2015–16 campaign saw further progress, as Castilla started strongly under Zidane, recording 9 wins, 5 draws, and 6 losses in 20 league matches by January 2016, achieving a points-per-match rate of 1.65 and positioning second in Group I at the time of his departure. This run demonstrated enhanced attacking output, with goals scored across his full tenure, though defensive vulnerabilities persisted. Zidane's emphasis on fluid, possession-based play helped integrate high-profile prospects, including Norwegian midfielder , who debuted for Castilla in February 2015 and trained intermittently with the first team during Zidane's oversight. Other notable players under his guidance included his son and emerging talents like , fostering a pathway that aligned with Real Madrid's youth development philosophy. Zidane's stint ended on January 4, 2016, when he was promoted to interim of the Real Madrid first team following Rafael Benítez's dismissal, having compiled an overall record of 16 wins, 10 draws, and 11 losses in 37 matches at Castilla with no major trophies but significant groundwork for his subsequent senior success. This period solidified his reputation as a mentor for elite youth prospects, bridging academy and professional levels at the club.

Real Madrid first spell (2016–2018)

Zinedine Zidane was appointed head coach of Real Madrid on 4 January 2016, succeeding following the latter's dismissal amid a trophyless start to the season and mounting pressure from the club's hierarchy. At 43, Zidane transitioned from managing the reserve team, , to the senior squad, bringing his status as a club legend and former player to stabilize a dressing room featuring stars like , , and . He inherited a side second in but reeling from inconsistent domestic form and a recent 4-0 loss to in . In his inaugural half-season (2015–16), Zidane revitalized the team's European campaign, guiding them to the final where they defeated 5–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw, securing the club's 11th title in the competition—known as La Undécima. This triumph marked Zidane's first major managerial honor and came despite finishing second in , one point behind . The victory propelled Real Madrid to additional successes, including a 3–2 win over Sevilla in the and a 4–2 extra-time defeat of in the final. Zidane's early impact stemmed from improved squad rotation and man-management, fostering unity among a high-profile roster prone to egos. Zidane's first full campaign (2016–17) delivered unprecedented dominance, with Real Madrid clinching —their first since 2012—on the final day via a 2–0 win at Málaga, ending Barcelona's two-year reign with 93 points from 29 wins. They repeated as Champions League champions, thrashing Juventus 4–1 in the final in , where scored twice. The season's haul extended to the Spanish Super Cup (3–1 aggregate over ), another (3–2 against Manchester United), and a Club World Cup title (2–1 over Grêmio). Employing a fluid 4–3–3 formation, Zidane emphasized possession-based build-up from the back, balanced by Casemiro's defensive shield, while rotating heavily—using 27 players across competitions—to manage fatigue over 60 matches. The 2017–18 season saw Zidane achieve a historic third consecutive Champions League victory, overcoming 3–1 in despite early setbacks like a 3–0 loss to in the group stage. This feat made him the first manager to win the European Cup three years running, with Real Madrid's 13th title overall. Domestically, however, the team faltered, finishing third in behind and , exiting the in the quarter-finals, and losing the Spanish Super Cup to . Zidane's approach relied on tactical adaptability, often shifting to counter-attacking in , bolstered by Ronaldo's 44 goals across all competitions. Over his 149 matches in charge during the first spell, Zidane recorded 105 wins, 28 draws, and 16 losses, averaging 2.30 points per game overall and achieving a 70.5% win rate. His tenure yielded nine trophies, transforming Real Madrid into a European powerhouse through trust in key players and squad depth. On 31 May 2018, days after the Champions League triumph, Zidane resigned, stating the club needed "a different voice" after an extraordinary cycle of success, though he cited internal exhaustion and a desire for fresh challenges.

Real Madrid second spell (2019–2021)

Zinedine Zidane returned to Real Madrid as head coach on 11 March 2019, replacing after the team endured a challenging period that included early exits from domestic cups and a string of losses in . His second spell began amid pressure to revive the squad's fortunes, building on his successful first tenure that had delivered three consecutive titles. In the 2019–20 season, Zidane guided Real Madrid to their 34th title, clinching it with a 2–1 victory over on 17 July 2020, one match before the campaign's end. The team amassed 86 points, losing only three times and remaining unbeaten at the —a record last achieved in 2012–13—while securing 10 consecutive wins after the pandemic-induced restart. Key victories included a 2–0 win against on 1 March 2020, where and scored to overtake their rivals, and late-season triumphs such as 1–0 away wins at and , both sealed by penalties. Ramos emerged as a standout with 10 goals, including five after the restart, while contributed 23 goals to finish second in the race, and recorded 18 clean sheets. Additionally, Real Madrid won the 2020 Spanish Super Cup, defeating in the final. However, their European campaign ended in the Champions League round of 16 with a 4–2 aggregate loss to Manchester City, marked by a 2–1 home defeat in the second leg. The 2020–21 season presented greater challenges, with Real Madrid suffering over 60 injuries and Zidane testing positive for COVID-19, forcing him to self-isolate for two weeks. Early setbacks included a Spanish Super Cup final loss to Athletic Bilbao in January 2021 and a shock Copa del Rey round-of-32 exit to third-tier Alcoyano. Despite these, the team mounted a 19-game unbeaten run in La Liga from February, finishing second with 84 points, just two behind champions Atlético Madrid after a final-day 2–1 win over Villarreal. In the Champions League, they advanced to the semifinals before a 3–1 aggregate defeat to Chelsea, highlighted by a 2–0 second-leg loss at Stamford Bridge. This marked the club's first trophyless season in 11 years, amid ongoing squad issues and tactical reliance on a core group from the prior campaign. Over his second spell, Zidane managed 114 matches, achieving a points-per-match average of 2.04 (69 wins, 25 draws, 20 losses) and overseeing one major domestic title. He departed on 27 May 2021, announcing his decision via an to the club, citing a lack of faith and support from the , media leaks about his , and frustration over unfulfilled transfer demands like signing . Real Madrid's official statement expressed respect for his choice, praising his professionalism and affirming his status as a club legend. The exit stemmed from broken trust with president , despite Zidane's efforts to maintain team morale amid adversity.

Post-coaching hiatus and future prospects

Following his departure from Real Madrid in May 2021, Zinedine Zidane entered a hiatus lasting over four years as of 2025, during which he has largely stepped back from professional football management to pursue personal and entrepreneurial endeavors. He has focused on family life, maintaining through regular sports activities, and expanding his business interests in the sports sector. A key aspect of Zidane's activities has been the growth of his Z5 Sport company, which operates multi-sport facilities emphasizing , , and other recreational activities. As of 2025, the network includes locations in , Istres, and a major new complex in Toulouges, (opened February 2025), featuring 13 courts, two pitches, and a area, with an investment of approximately €5 million. In April 2025, he became the ambassador for Palace Merano's high-end Sport Recovery Lab in , a facility dedicated to athlete muscle recovery and rehabilitation, where he personally tested the programs. These ventures reflect his continued passion for sports infrastructure and youth development outside of elite coaching. Regarding future prospects, Zidane has repeatedly stated his intention to return to management, emphasizing roles aligned with his personal and professional values, specifically Real Madrid or the France national team. In October 2025, at Italy's Trento Sports Festival, he confirmed plans to return as a head coach, naming the France job after the 2026 FIFA World Cup—when current manager Didier Deschamps is expected to step down—as a primary goal. In November 2025, reports emerged that Zidane had agreed to succeed Deschamps as France head coach following the 2026 World Cup, marking the end of his hiatus. Despite prior links to clubs like Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, Zidane has rejected offers that do not match these criteria, underscoring his selective approach to his next chapter.

Legacy and cultural impact

As a player

Zinedine Zidane is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, renowned for his exceptional vision, technical mastery, and elegant control that redefined the role of the attacking midfielder. His career, spanning from 1989 to 2006, combined balletic grace with tactical intelligence, allowing him to dictate play through precise passing and that often dismantled defenses. Zidane's influence extended beyond statistics, inspiring a generation of players with his ability to elevate team performances in high-stakes moments, earning him three World Player of the Year awards in 1998, 2000, and 2003. At the international level, Zidane's legacy is anchored in his pivotal role for , where he captained the team to historic triumphs that symbolized national unity. In the , he scored two headers in the 3-0 final victory over , securing France's first world title and earning the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. This success, amid a diverse squad reflecting France's multicultural fabric, positioned Zidane as a beacon of integration, often credited with fostering social cohesion in a divided nation. Two years later, at , Zidane led to the title, scoring three goals—including two in the semi-final against from free-kicks—and being named Player of the Tournament for his masterful displays. His performance in the final, a 2-1 extra-time win over , exemplified his clutch ability. Zidane's international career culminated in the , where, at age 34, he captained to the final, scoring three goals and providing an assist, before his infamous ejection against . Over 108 caps, he scored 31 goals, cementing his status as France's talismanic figure. Zidane's club career further solidified his legacy, beginning with AS Cannes and FC Girondins de Bordeaux in , where he honed his skills. At Juventus from 1996 to 2001, he made 212 appearances, scoring 31 goals, and secured two titles (1996–97, 1997–98), a , a , and the Intercontinental Cup. Despite reaching back-to-back finals in 1997 and 1998—both losses to and Real Madrid—he was instrumental in the team's dominant possession-based style. In 2001, Zidane transferred to Real Madrid for a then-world-record €77.5 million, forming the "" era. There, over 227 appearances and 49 goals, he won in 2002–03 and the , highlighted by his iconic left-footed volley in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, often hailed as one of football's greatest goals. This strike not only clinched the trophy but epitomized Zidane's capacity for moments of genius under pressure. Zidane's playing style—characterized by close ball control, roulette spins, and visionary passes—influenced modern midfielders, emphasizing creativity over physicality in an era shifting toward athleticism. His win and three World Player awards underscored individual excellence, while his leadership in collective successes like France's double ( and Euros) highlighted his role in team-oriented triumphs. Retiring after the 2006 World Cup final, Zidane left a legacy of 114 club goals and profound cultural impact, with his elegance continuing to inspire global football aesthetics and diversity discussions.

As a coach

Zinedine Zidane's transition to coaching marked a remarkable evolution from one of football's greatest players to a highly successful manager, particularly at Real Madrid, where he achieved unprecedented success without prior senior experience. Appointed in January 2016 following Rafael Benítez's dismissal, Zidane led Real Madrid to nine major trophies in his first spell, including three consecutive titles from 2016 to 2018—a feat unmatched in the competition's modern era. This accomplishment not only solidified his legacy at the club but also elevated him to the status of one of the most effective managers in European football history, often compared favorably to legends like and for his Champions League dominance. Zidane's coaching philosophy emphasized man-management, tactical pragmatism, and unwavering loyalty to an attacking, possession-based identity rooted in collective effort and player freedom. Influenced heavily by his time under Marcelo Lippi at Juventus from 1996 to 1999, he prioritized , team commitment, and allowing star players autonomy within a structured framework, as evidenced by his hiring of fitness coach Antonio Pintus to maintain peak conditioning. His approach fostered squad harmony at Real Madrid, where he rotated a star-studded lineup—including the "" forward trio of , , and [Cristiano Ronaldo](/page/Cristiano Ronaldo)—without discord, benching high-profile players when necessary to enforce discipline and unity. Tactically, Zidane demonstrated flexibility, adapting formations like the 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 and employing counter-pressing in key matches, such as the 2016 Champions League quarter-final against , while relying on set-pieces and crosses to maximize his team's strengths. This "Zizou effect" immediately revitalized Real Madrid's atmosphere upon his arrival, transforming a struggling side into Champions League finalists in his debut season and instilling a winning mentality that conquered elite opponents like Bayern , Juventus, and . In his second spell from March 2019 to May 2021, Zidane returned to stabilize a transitioning Real Madrid amid post-Ronaldo challenges, securing two more trophies: the title, clinched during the with a defensively robust campaign conceding just 19 goals, and the . Although this period lacked the European glory of his first tenure, it underscored his adaptability and loyalty, as he departed citing a lack of institutional support despite guiding the team to consistent top-tier contention. Overall, Zidane's 10 trophies across both spells—spanning three Champions Leagues, one , two UEFA Super Cups, two FIFA Club World Cups, and two Spanish Super Cups—represent a trophy every 26.3 games, a record that cements his place among Real Madrid's greatest managers. Zidane's broader impact on football extends beyond trophies, inspiring a generation of coaches through his emphasis on , player empowerment, and resilience under pressure. His success has particularly influenced French managerial talent. As of November 2025, Zidane is set to become of the France national team after the , succeeding and marking his return to management with the nation he once captained to 1998 World Cup glory. By demonstrating that elite playing pedigree can translate to managerial excellence via humility and strategic acumen, Zidane has redefined expectations for former stars entering coaching, leaving an enduring legacy of elegance and efficacy in the sport's evolution. Zidane has been portrayed in various and documentaries that capture his elegance and intensity on the pitch. The 2006 experimental documentary Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait, directed by artists and Philippe Parreno, tracks Zidane throughout a single Real Madrid match against using 17 synchronized cameras, creating a hypnotic study of his movements and demeanor. This film, originally conceived as an art installation, blends sports footage with a soundtrack featuring songs selected by Zidane himself, emphasizing his introspective persona. Another notable work is the 2010 documentary Zinedine Zidane: Zizou the Great, which features interviews with Zidane reflecting on his career and passion for football, interspersed with highlights of his key goals and matches. Beyond documentaries, Zidane has made cameo appearances in mainstream cinema, often playing heightened versions of himself. In the 2005 sports drama Goal! The Dream Begins, he appears as a Real Madrid star in a pivotal match scene, inspiring the protagonist. He reprises a similar role in the 2007 sequel Goal! 2: Living the Dream, showcasing his skills during a Newcastle United vs. Real Madrid exhibition. In the 2008 French comedy Astérix at the Olympic Games, Zidane portrays Numérodis, a character juggling a football in Cleopatra-inspired attire, adding a whimsical nod to his ball control amid the film's star-studded cameos by athletes. Zidane's image has been extensively commercialized in , leveraging his status as a global icon. He has been a longtime ambassador, beginning with campaigns after France's 1998 win that highlighted his role in multicultural unity through diverse athlete endorsements. In 2010, he fronted Adidas's Body Care range for men, promoting grooming products tied to athletic performance. More recently, in 2022, Montblanc appointed him as a "Mark Maker" for its Legend fragrance line, featuring him in campaigns and co-designing a capsule collection of pens and leather goods that reflect his precision and legacy. In 2023, he became an ambassador for Alpine cars, championing the brand's initiatives for equal opportunities in . By 2025, Palace named him its , aligning his disciplined image with the spa's Revital Method for wellness. Zidane has also inspired musical tributes, particularly in French popular culture. The 2006 song "Zidane y va marquer" by comedian Cauet, a playful predicting his goals, became a widespread fan chant during the , symbolizing national hope before his infamous in the final. This track, building on earlier 1998 parodies, underscores Zidane's dual role as hero and spectacle in French media. Later, international artists referenced him; for instance, the 2014 electronic track "Zinedine Zidane" by Vaudeville Smash feat. Les Murray celebrates his superiority over other players through lyrics listing rivals he outshone. These songs reflect his enduring influence in music as a symbol of football artistry.

Personal life

Family

Zinedine Zidane was born on 23 June 1972 in , , to Algerian parents Smaïl and Malika Zidane, who immigrated from the village of in Kabylie, , to in 1953. Smaïl worked night shifts at a warehouse in Marseille's port, while Malika was a homemaker. The family settled in the working-class neighborhood, a challenging area marked by and social issues. Zidane is the youngest of five children; his siblings include brothers Farid (c. 1965–2019), Djamel, and Nourredine, as well as sister Lila. , the eldest, managed Zidane's early career and later worked in talent development at . The siblings grew up in modest circumstances, with Zidane crediting his family's support for his rise from street football to professional success. In 1994, Zidane married Véronique Fernández-Lentisco, a French woman of Spanish descent whom he met in 1989 at age 17; she briefly studied before becoming a model. The couple has four sons, all of whom have followed in Zidane's footsteps as professional footballers: (born 24 March 1995), Luca (born 13 May 1998), Théo (born 18 May 2002), and Elyaz (born 26 December 2005). As of November 2025, Luca plays for and has switched his international allegiance to , while retired in 2024 after stints at several clubs; Théo is with and Elyaz with Real Betis's reserve team. and Luca progressed through Real Madrid's youth academy, while Théo and Elyaz have also trained at top clubs in . Véronique has maintained a low public profile, focusing on family privacy amid Zidane's high-profile career.

Religion and interests

Zinedine Zidane was raised in a Muslim household by his Algerian immigrant parents, Smaïl and Malika, who hailed from the Kabylie region of , a predominantly Muslim area. He has publicly identified as Muslim, expressing pride in his heritage alongside his French identity, stating in a 2018 interview, “I have an affinity with the Arabic world. I have it in my blood, via my parents. I’m very proud of being French, but also very proud of having these roots and this diversity.” Zidane maintains a private approach to his faith, rarely discussing it in detail, though reports suggest he observes practices such as . Beyond his religious background, Zidane has diverse personal interests that reflect a balanced lifestyle away from football. He is an avid reader, often using flights as an opportunity to catch up on books rather than watching films, and has been spotted with titles like Le livre des pensées: les essentials du bien-être (The Book of Thoughts: The Essentials of Well-Being). He enjoys running and wildlife safaris, particularly in South Africa, and listens to French music artists such as Daniel Balavoine, Jean-Jacques Goldman, and Michel Berger to unwind. Zidane also values minimalism, keeping few possessions, including only his 1998 Ballon d'Or trophy, and carries sentimental items like a family photo and his father's book Sur les chemins de pierres. Philanthropy forms a significant part of Zidane's interests, driven by his roots and commitment to social causes. In 2019, he allocated €3 million to the Zidane Foundation, co-founded with his father to support impoverished children and families in Algeria through education and healthcare initiatives. As an honorary member and godfather of the European Leukodystrophies Association (ELA) since around 2013, he has raised awareness and funds for the rare genetic disease, including climbing Mont Blanc in 2022 for the cause. Zidane co-organizes the annual Match Against Poverty with Ronaldo as UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors, supporting UN efforts against poverty and hunger, such as aid for the 2011 Horn of Africa crisis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his foundation donated medical supplies to a hospital in Béjaïa, Algeria, his family's ancestral province. He continues to participate in charity matches, including one in Cannes in October 2025 to benefit social causes.

Career statistics

Club

Zinedine Zidane's club career spanned four teams, where he made a total of 689 appearances and scored 125 goals across all competitions. His debut came with AS Cannes in 1989, followed by stints at Girondins de Bordeaux, Juventus, and Real Madrid, where he achieved his greatest successes. Below is a summary of his total appearances and goals by club:
ClubYearsAppearancesGoals
AS Cannes1989–1992716
Girondins de Bordeaux1992–199617939
Juventus1996–200121231
Real Madrid2001–200622749
These figures include domestic league, cup, and European competitions. For Real specifically, the official club records confirm 227 appearances and 49 goals. Assists were not systematically recorded in all eras, but available data indicate 24 for , 54 for Juventus, and 67 for Real .

International

Zinedine Zidane earned 108 caps for the national team between 1994 and 2006, during which he scored 31 goals. He debuted on 17 August 1994 against the , netting twice in a 2–2 friendly draw. Zidane captained 17 times starting in 2004 and was instrumental in their successes at the and , earning Player of the Tournament honors at the latter. His appearances and goals broken down by year are as follows:
YearAppearancesGoals
199422
199562
1996121
199781
1998155
199961
2000124
200182
200291
200373
200474
200552
2006103
Total10831
By competition, Zidane appeared in 14 matches (5 goals), 14 matches (5 goals), 4 qualifiers (1 goal), 19 qualifiers (6 goals), and 57 friendlies (14 goals).

Managerial

Zidane began his managerial career with in the Spanish third tier, where he managed 37 matches, achieving 16 wins, 10 draws, and 11 losses, for a win percentage of 43.2%. His first spell as head coach of Real Madrid's first team spanned from January 2016 to June 2018, during which he oversaw 149 matches across all competitions, recording 104 wins, 29 draws, and 16 losses, yielding a win percentage of 69.8% and 393 goals scored against 160 conceded. Zidane returned for a second spell with Real Madrid from March 2019 to June 2021, managing 114 matches with 69 wins, 25 draws, and 20 losses, resulting in a win percentage of 60.5%.
ClubLeague/CompetitionTenureMatchesWinsDrawsLossesWin %
2014–20163716101143.2
Real MadridAll competitions2016–2018149104291669.8
Real MadridAll competitions2019–202111469252060.5
Total300189644763.0
Overall, across 300 matches as a , Zidane accumulated 189 wins, 64 draws, and 47 losses, achieving a career win percentage of 63.0%.

Honours and records

As a player

Zinedine Zidane is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, renowned for his exceptional vision, technical mastery, and elegant control that redefined the of the attacking . His , spanning from 1989 to 2006, combined balletic grace with tactical intelligence, allowing him to dictate play through precise passing and dribbling that often dismantled defenses. Zidane's influence extended beyond statistics, inspiring a generation of players with his ability to elevate team performances in high-stakes moments, earning him three World Player of the Year awards in 1998, 2000, and 2003. At the international level, Zidane's legacy is anchored in his pivotal role for , where he captained the team to historic triumphs that symbolized national unity. In the , he scored two headers in the 3-0 final victory over , securing France's first world title and earning the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. This success, amid a diverse squad reflecting France's multicultural fabric, positioned Zidane as a beacon of integration, often credited with fostering social cohesion in a divided nation. Two years later, at , Zidane led to the title, scoring three goals—including two in the semi-final against from free-kicks—and being named Player of the Tournament for his masterful displays. His performance in the final, a 2-1 extra-time win over , exemplified his clutch ability. Zidane's international career culminated in the , where, at age 34, he captained to the final, scoring three goals and providing an assist, before his infamous headbutt ejection against . Over 108 caps, he scored 31 goals, cementing his status as France's talismanic figure. Zidane's club career further solidified his legacy, beginning with AS Cannes and FC Girondins de Bordeaux in , where he honed his skills. At Juventus from 1996 to 2001, he made 212 appearances, scoring 31 goals, and secured two titles (1996–97, 1997–98), a , a , and the Intercontinental Cup. Despite reaching back-to-back finals in 1997 and 1998—both losses to and Real Madrid—he was instrumental in the team's dominant possession-based style. In 2001, Zidane transferred to Real Madrid for a then-world-record €77.5 million, forming the "" era. There, over 227 appearances and 49 goals, he won in 2002–03 and the , highlighted by his iconic left-footed volley in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, often hailed as one of football's greatest goals. This strike not only clinched the trophy but epitomized Zidane's capacity for moments of genius under pressure. Zidane's playing style—characterized by close ball control, roulette spins, and visionary passes—influenced modern midfielders, emphasizing creativity over physicality in an era shifting toward athleticism. His win and three World Player awards underscored individual excellence, while his leadership in collective successes like France's double ( and Euros) highlighted his role in team-oriented triumphs. Retiring after the 2006 World Cup final, Zidane left a legacy of 125 club goals and profound cultural impact, with his elegance continuing to inspire global football aesthetics and diversity discussions.

As a manager

Zinedine Zidane transitioned into after retiring as a player in 2006, initially serving as a and for Real Madrid until 2013. He began his formal roles within the club by leading the under-17 team in the 2012–13 season, followed by a stint as assistant manager to during the 2013–14 campaign, where he contributed to the conquest of the and . In 2014, Zidane took charge of Real Madrid Castilla, the club's reserve team in the , for a 17-month period ending in January 2016. During this time, he managed 37 matches, achieving 16 wins, 10 draws, and 11 losses, for a points-per-match average of 1.57; the team finished second in the 2014–15 season but failed to secure promotion via and placed tenth the following year. His tenure emphasized youth development, nurturing talents like while implementing a possession-based style adapted to the second tier. Zidane's appointment as Real Madrid's first-team manager came on 4 January 2016, succeeding Rafael Benítez amid a challenging season. In his first spell, lasting until May 2018, he oversaw 149 matches, recording 105 wins, 28 draws, and 16 losses (points-per-match: 2.30). This period marked one of the most successful eras in the club's history, highlighted by three consecutive UEFA Champions League triumphs (2016, 2017, 2018)—a feat unprecedented for any manager—along with the 2016–17 La Liga title, two UEFA Super Cups (2016, 2017), and two FIFA Club World Cups (2016, 2017). Zidane's tactical acumen shone in high-stakes knockout ties, employing a fluid 4-3-3 formation that balanced defensive solidity with rapid counterattacks, leveraging stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema; his man-management skills fostered team unity, contributing to an undefeated home record in the Champions League over 43 games. He also secured two Spanish Super Cups (2017, 2020). Honours with Real Madrid (first spell, 2016–2018):
  • UEFA Champions League: 2016, 2017, 2018
  • La Liga: 2016–17
  • UEFA Super Cup: 2016, 2017
  • FIFA Club World Cup: 2016, 2017
  • Spanish Super Cup: 2017
After a brief hiatus, Zidane returned to Real Madrid on 11 March 2019, replacing Santiago Solari, and managed until June 2021 across 114 matches (69 wins, 25 draws, 20 losses; points-per-match: 2.04). This second tenure yielded the 2019–20 La Liga title, ending Barcelona's dominance, and the 2020 Spanish Super Cup, but included early Champions League exits in 2019 and 2020 amid squad aging and the COVID-19 disruptions. He departed citing concerns over the club's future direction, particularly player sales and financial issues, leaving with a combined Real Madrid first-team record of 263 games, 174 wins, 53 draws, and 36 losses. Honours with Real Madrid (second spell, 2019–2021):
  • La Liga: 2019–20
  • Spanish Super Cup: 2020
Overall, Zidane's managerial career at Real Madrid amassed 11 major trophies, establishing him as one of the competition's elite coaches with a 67% win rate across 300 total matches (190 wins, 63 draws, 47 losses). His approach prioritized collective harmony over rigid systems, drawing from his playing philosophy of creativity and resilience. Since leaving in 2021, Zidane has not taken another role, rejecting offers from Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and others, while expressing strong interest in coaching the France national team post-Didier Deschamps, as stated in October 2025 interviews. As of November 2025, reports indicate he is set to become France's manager after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Individual awards and records

Zinedine Zidane received numerous individual accolades throughout his career, both as a player and later as a manager, recognizing his exceptional talent and impact on the sport. As a player, he was honored with some of the highest distinctions in football, often for his pivotal roles in major international tournaments and club successes. These awards underscored his status as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, highlighted by his vision, technical skill, and clutch performances. Key individual awards as a player include the Ballon d'Or in 1998, awarded by France Football for his outstanding contributions, including leading France to their first FIFA World Cup title. He also won the FIFA World Player of the Year award three times—in 1998, 2000, and 2003—making him one of only two players, alongside Ronaldo Nazário, to achieve this feat. In 2002, Zidane was named UEFA Club Footballer of the Year for his instrumental role in Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League triumph, where he scored the iconic winning volley in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. Additionally, he earned the UEFA Euro 2000 Player of the Tournament honor for his masterful displays, including two goals and key assists that propelled France to victory. At the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Zidane received the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, despite France's final loss, for his leadership and scoring in the final against Italy. As a manager, Zidane's individual recognitions centered on his achievements with Real , where he became the first coach to win the three consecutive times (–). He was awarded The Best FIFA Men's Coach in 2017 for guiding Real to a title, , and that season. In 2011, Zidane received the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award for his overall contributions to football as both player and emerging figure in the sport. Zidane holds several notable records that highlight his legacy. He is the only player to score in two finals, netting two headers in the 1998 victory over and a penalty in the 2006 final against . As a player, he was voted the best European footballer of the past 50 years in UEFA's 2004 Poll, based on a public vote conducted by the organization. In club football, his 2002 Champions League final goal remains one of the competition's most celebrated strikes, contributing to Real Madrid's ninth European title at the time.

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