Zinedine Zidane, a manager since stepping away from his role at Real Madrid in 2021, previously boasted an impressive playing career. Starting as a midfielder at Cannes, it was his move to Bordeaux in 1992 that caught the attention of top European clubs.
After leading Bordeaux to the UEFA Cup final in 1996, Zidane made the transition to Juventus, where he played for five years. During this period, he enhanced his reputation, helping Juventus secure two Serie A titles and reaching two Champions League finals.
Zidane was not only dominant in club football but also a pivotal player for the French national team. He contributed to France’s triumph in the World Cup in 1998 and won the Ballon d’Or in 1998, later adding an European Championship win in 2000.
His exceptional talent and recognition in the sport culminated in a world-record transfer fee when Zidane joined Real Madrid in 2001. His time at the Bernabeu saw him win both La Liga and the Champions League before retiring in 2006.
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Zinedine Zidane Career Stats |
|
|---|---|
|
Playing Tenure |
1989-2006 |
|
Appearances |
689 |
|
Goals |
125 |
|
Assists |
141 |
|
Yellow Cards |
91 |
As a manager, Zidane has solely worked with Real Madrid, leading them to three consecutive Champions League victories during his first term. His success as both a player and manager has established him as a respected figure in football, often sharing insightful views on the game. In 2020, he expressed high regard for a Manchester United legend.
‘Would Have Been On The Bench’
Nothing but praise for Premier League icon
Among the few who epitomize the term “one-club man,” Ryan Giggs stands out. He debuted in 1990, spending an incredible 24 years with Manchester United, where he became a crucial part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad and a significant contributor to the club’s dominance, securing 13 Premier League titles.
Giggs’ long-lasting excellence solidified his legacy, garnering recognition from fans and fellow players alike. When discussing Giggs, Zidane remarked:
“If he was French, (Robert) Pires or myself would have been on the bench.”
Given Zidane’s standing in the French national team, this comment serves as a tremendous compliment. Giggs himself has also praised Zidane’s capabilities.
‘He Was Just Amazing’
Giggs spoke highly of Zidane
Zidane’s remarkable talent put him in the spotlight, earning admiration from many, including Giggs. In a 2019 interview, he noted:
“The best player I played with is Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s the best I have played with. The best I played against? Zidane, when I first faced him while he was at Juventus, was just amazing.”
“I looked at him and thought, ‘I need to get to his level.’ His touch was brilliant, and he had great balance. I played against Messi as well, who is one of the greatest ever, but Zidane had a significant impact on me and was obviously a magnificent player.”
(All stats are sourced from Transfermarkt and are accurate as of 15/07/2025)
