Zinedine Zidane Highlights British Star Who Would Have Benched Him
Zinedine Zidane remains one of the most elegant names in modern football history.
The former French midfield star was renowned for his exquisite touch, vision, and ability to influence the biggest matches.
Yet he once pointed to a British player who, in his own view, could have sent him to the bench had he been of a different nationality.
A Career Among the Greatest
Zidane’s journey to the top began in Cannes and truly gathered pace at Bordeaux, where he attracted attention from Europe’s elite clubs.
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His move to Juventus in 1996 proved decisive. There, he developed into one of the world’s most complete midfielders, winning two Serie A titles and reaching two Champions League finals.
On the international stage, he cemented his status as a national hero. France’s World Cup triumph in 1998 — where he scored twice in the final against Brazil — secured his place in football history.
That same year, he was awarded the Ballon d’Or. The European Championship title in 2000 only further confirmed his importance to the French national team.
In 2001, he joined Real Madrid for a world-record fee. There, he added both La Liga and the Champions League to his collection before retiring in 2006.
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An Unusual Tribute
Despite his remarkable career, Zidane has expressed deep admiration for Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs. In 2020, he stated that if Giggs had been French, either Robert Pires or he himself would have had to settle for a place on the bench.
The comment attracted widespread attention. Zidane was the focal point of a French national team filled with stars.
That he voluntarily placed himself in another player’s shadow underscores the respect he held for the Welsh winger.
Loyalty and Longevity
Ryan Giggs is closely associated with the idea of a one-club man.
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From his debut in 1990 until his retirement in 2014, he represented only Manchester United.
Under Sir Alex Ferguson, he became a central figure during the club’s golden era, winning 13 Premier League titles — more than any other player.
His pace, technique, and ability to adapt his game over the years made him a constant threat on the wing.
This is reported by GiveMeSport.
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Mutual Respect
The admiration went both ways. Giggs has described Zidane as the most influential opponent he ever faced.
He highlighted the Frenchman’s balance, first touch, and composure on the ball as qualities that set him apart.
When two of the game’s most iconic figures exchange that level of respect, it speaks to a special mutual understanding. Even the greatest recognise greatness when they see it.
