ON THIS DAY IN 2002: Zinedine Zidane’s goal for Real Madrid in the Champions League final has been hailed as one of the best of all time, not just by outsiders but also by those who played under the legend
On May 15, 2002, Real Madrid faced Bayer Leverkusen for Champions League glory. With the help of one of the all-time best goals in a European final, they got it.
Some 20 years later, Zinedine Zidane’s volley remains very much in the ‘greatest of all time’ conversation. A long volley, with his bad foot, of what wasn’t Roberto Carlos’ perfect ball, 1-1 in the Champions League final – yes, that’s going to take a little while.
It is a goal that France Football considered the most beautiful of all time in the Champions League, in the final or otherwise. Beauty is what elevates her above the rest, and that’s what now – two decades later – means she’s still appreciated around the world.
Those who were inside Hampden Park for the final remember the goal fondly, but they weren’t the only ones. Here, Mirror Football examines past and present players’ comments on a goal few will ever forget.
Eden Hazard
It’s not just those who were there in 2002 who appreciated the quality. Indeed, those who followed Zidane to the Bernabeu held the goal in similar esteem.
Hazard played under Zidane at Madrid when the World Cup winner was manager, and the Belgian made the right noises when he arrived in Spain. Things may not have worked out for Hazard at Madrid since his transfer in 2019, but in September of that year he heaped praise on Zizou.
At a Mahou event ahead of the Madrid derby, he was asked about the ‘greatest goal ever’ and his answer was simple. « Zidane’s volley against Bayer Leverkusen ».
Gareth Bale
Perhaps the biggest contender for Zidane’s crown came in 2018, when Bale scored another stunner in a Champions League final for Real Madrid. His bicycle kick against Liverpool was not officially the winner, with the Welshman scoring again to make it 3-1, but to say otherwise is to split hairs.
Two years before that goal, ahead of a final against Atletico Madrid, Bale spoke lyrically about Zidane’s 2002 effort. The Welshman didn’t score in 2016, when Zidane was in the dugout for a penalty shootout victory on goal, but Bale’s moment would come later.
« I think my favorite Champions League moment growing up would have to be that Zinedine Zidane volley against Bayer Leverkusen, » said the former Spurs star. I was a huge Real Madrid fan as a kid, so winning the Champions League with a goal like that was really something special.
Zinedine Zidane, one of the most successful football managers of recent times, has been out of the coaching spotlight since his departure from Real Madrid in 2021. However, the football world is buzzing with speculation about where this iconic figure might go next. Zidane’s illustrious career as both a player and a manager has fans eagerly awaiting his return to the sidelines.
In this article, we explore Zidane’s potential next steps and the clubs that could be in his future.
A Return to Juventus?
Zidane’s ties to Juventus run deep. He played for the Italian giants between 1996 and 2001, earning two Serie A titles during his time in Turin. Recently, rumors have suggested that Zidane could return to Juventus, this time as a manager. With Juventus looking to return to their dominant form in Italy and Europe, Zidane could be the perfect candidate to bring the club back to glory.
Zidane’s tactical expertise and leadership could fit well with Juventus’ ambitions, especially considering his success in managing star players and high-pressure situations. Could a return to the club where he made his name as a world-class player be the next chapter in his coaching career?
Paris Saint-Germain: A French Homecoming?
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is another club frequently linked to Zidane. A move to PSG would not only bring Zidane back to France but also put him in charge of one of the richest and most star-studded teams in Europe. With PSG’s constant quest for Champions League success, Zidane’s record of three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid makes him an attractive option.
While Zidane has previously expressed his desire to coach the French national team, a stint at PSG could be a tempting alternative, especially with the opportunity to work with stars like Kylian Mbappé and Neymar.
The French National Team: A Dream Role?
Zidane has long been considered a potential future manager for the French national team. Didier Deschamps, the current manager, has had great success, but Zidane is seen as the natural successor. With his deep understanding of French football and his legendary status, Zidane managing Les Bleus would likely be a dream come true for many fans.
While Zidane has stayed patient, waiting for the right opportunity, there’s a strong chance that once Deschamps steps down, Zidane will take over the reins, possibly leading France into a new era of dominance on the international stage.
Other Top European Clubs: Could the Premier League Be Next?
Apart from Juventus and PSG, Zidane has also been linked to top clubs in the Premier League, including Manchester United. Although Zidane has not managed in England before, the allure of taking charge of a big English club could be appealing. The Premier League’s global stage and intense competition might just be the challenge Zidane is looking for in his next managerial chapter.
What’s Next for Zidane?
As Zidane continues to enjoy his break from football, the speculation surrounding his next move only grows stronger. Whether it’s Juventus, PSG, the French national team, or another European giant, one thing is certain: Zidane’s return to coaching will be one of the most anticipated moments in world football.
In the illustrious world of football, certain last names carry an inherent weight of legacy and expectation. One such name is Zidane, synonymous with brilliance on the pitch. As the son of the legendary Zinedine Zidane, Theo Zidane finds himself in a unique position, navigating the complexities of adolescence and football stardom while carrying forward the legacy of a father who needs no introduction.
The Early Years: Growing Up in the Shadow of Greatness
Theo Zidane was born into a world where his father, Zinedine Zidane, is celebrated as one of the greatest football players of all time. Explore Theo’s early years, from the hallowed halls of football stadiums to the intimate moments within the Zidane family home. How does one grow up in the shadow of a father who is a living legend?
Inheriting the Passion: Theo’s Journey into Football
It’s inevitable that the love for football would run in Theo’s veins. Track Theo’s initial steps into the world of football, from kicking a ball in the backyard to joining youth academies. What aspects of Zinedine Zidane’s style and philosophy are evident in Theo’s emerging approach to the game?
Fatherly Wisdom: Zinedine Zidane’s Influence on Theo’s Development
Zinedine Zidane isn’t just a football icon; he’s also a father. Delve into the dynamics of their relationship—how has Zinedine’s experience and wisdom shaped Theo’s understanding of the beautiful game? From friendly matches in the backyard to professional advice, explore the fatherly influence that goes beyond the confines of the football field.
Navigating Expectations: Theo’s Journey in the Public Eye
Being the son of a football legend means living under the scrutiny of public attention. How does Theo navigate the expectations and comparisons? Explore instances where he has showcased his own unique skills and personality, carving a niche for himself while acknowledging the weight of the Zidane name.
Balancing Act: Education, Football, and Personal Growth
While football is a significant part of Theo’s life, he is also navigating the challenges of education and personal growth. How does he balance the demands of school with the rigorous training required for football excellence? What are his aspirations beyond the football pitch?
The Next Zidane Generation: Siblings and Family Dynamics
The Zidane legacy isn’t confined to Theo alone. Explore the dynamics of the Zidane household, including Theo’s relationships with his siblings—Enzo, Luca, and Elyaz. How do they support each other, and what role does football play in their family bonds?
A Continuing Saga of Zidane Brilliance
As Theo Zidane continues to mature and develop both as an individual and as a football player, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of a family synonymous with football greatness. While comparisons are inevitable, Theo’s journey is a unique narrative within the broader Zidane saga. The story is still unfolding, and football enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate witnessing the next chapter in the remarkable Zidane legacy.
The Theo Zidane Story—A Tale of Identity and Aspiration
In Theo Zidane, we witness the convergence of a historic football legacy with the aspirations of a young, talented individual. The narrative is not just about the son of Zinedine Zidane; it’s about Theo—a player, a student, a family member, and a young man with a path uniquely his own. As we follow his journey, we are reminded that greatness is not only inherited but also forged through individual passion, dedication, and a love for the beautiful game.
In the dazzling universe of football, where the spotlight often gravitates towards the players, there exists an enchanting figure who gracefully navigates the peripheries—Véronique Zidane. Beyond being the wife of the legendary Zinedine Zidane, Véronique emerges as a woman of substance, adding layers of depth to the Zidane legacy. In this exploration, we delve into her life, her role as a mother, her influence on fashion, and her quiet yet impactful forays into philanthropy.
1. A Glimpse into Véronique’s Early Life
Before becoming an integral part of football royalty, Véronique Zidane, born Véronique Fernández Lentisco, had her own narrative. Explore the early chapters of her life, her upbringing, and the formative experiences that shaped the woman who would later share the limelight with one of the greatest footballers of all time.
2. The Zidane Love Story: From Romance to Parenthood
The love story of Zinedine and Véronique is the stuff of legends. Chart the course of their romance, from the initial sparks to the challenges faced as a couple in the public eye. Delve into the intricacies of their enduring love, witnessing its evolution through the lenses of marriage and parenthood.
3. Véronique as the Pillar of the Zidane Family
While Zinedine Zidane commands stadiums, Véronique is the steady force behind the scenes. Explore her role as the matriarch of the Zidane family, managing the demands of a high-profile life while instilling values and creating a nurturing home environment for their four children—Enzo, Luca, Theo, and Elyaz.
4. Style and Elegance: Véronique’s Fashion Journey
Beyond the football pitch, Véronique’s fashion choices have earned her a place in the pantheon of style icons. Unpack her fashion evolution, from red-carpet appearances to casual outings, and discover how she effortlessly combines sophistication with modern trends.
5. Navigating the Digital Landscape: Véronique’s Social Media Presence
In the era of digital connectivity, Véronique manages a discreet yet engaging presence on social media. Examine her approach to sharing glimpses of her life with a global audience, balancing the desire for privacy with the recognition of the platform’s potential to connect with fans.
6. Véronique Zidane, the Philanthropist
Beyond the glamour and glitz, Véronique engages in philanthropy, dedicating time and resources to various charitable causes. Uncover the initiatives she supports, the impact she strives to make, and her contributions beyond the confines of the football world.
7. Enduring Love: Véronique and Zinedine Through the Years
The Zidane love story isn’t confined to the headlines—it’s a tale of resilience and enduring commitment. Journey through the years, from the peaks of success to the challenges faced, and witness how their partnership has withstood the tests of time.
Conclusion: The Legacy Continues
As we immerse ourselves in the captivating world of Véronique Zidane, it becomes evident that she is more than just a football spouse. Her journey is an intricate tapestry of love, family, style, and philanthropy, contributing to the rich legacy of the Zidane name. As Zinedine continues to make history in football, Véronique remains a silent force, shaping her own narrative and adding a touch of grace to the annals of football history.
Final Thoughts: A Woman of Substance in a World of Icons
In the realm of icons, Véronique Zidane stands tall, not overshadowed by the brilliance of her husband but illuminated by her own radiance. Through her resilience, style, and philanthropy, she carves a space for herself in a world where football often dominates the narrative. As the Zidane legacy continues to evolve, Véronique’s presence ensures that it is not merely a tale of goals and victories but a story woven with the threads of love, family, and individuality.
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16 mai 2022 at 22h45
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