When Did Zidane Stop Playing for Madrid?
Zinedine Zidane, the legendary French footballer, had a remarkable career with Real Madrid. Known for his elegance and skill on the field, Zidane left an indelible mark on the club’s history. Let’s take a closer look at when he bid farewell to the iconic white jersey.
The Arrival of Zidane
Zidane joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2001 after a successful stint with Juventus. His transfer to Los Blancos was a record-breaking one, making him the most expensive player at that time. The expectations were sky-high as fans eagerly awaited his debut.
Success and Triumph
Zidane’s impact was immediate. He quickly became an integral part of the team and showcased his incredible talent in every match. With his exceptional vision, exquisite ball control, and precise passing ability, he orchestrated Madrid’s attacking play with finesse.
Under his leadership on the field, Real Madrid clinched numerous titles including:
- La Liga: 2002-2003
- UEFA Champions League: 2001-2002, 2013-2014, 2015-2016
- Copa del Rey: 2010-2011, 2013-2014
In addition to team success, Zidane received personal accolades during his tenure at Madrid. He won FIFA World Player of the Year three times (1998, 2000, and 2003) and was crowned Ballon d’Or winner in 1998.
The Final Chapter
After gracing the Madrid midfield for several years, Zidane announced his retirement from professional football in 2006. His last match in a Real Madrid shirt was in the final of the FIFA World Cup held in Germany that year. Unfortunately, his farewell didn’t go as planned, as he received a red card for a headbutt on Marco Materazzi.
Legacy and Impact
Zidane’s departure left a void that was not easy to fill. His elegance, skill, and leadership qualities were sorely missed by the fans and the club. However, his impact extended beyond his playing days.
Years later, Zidane returned to Real Madrid as a coach and led the team to unprecedented success. In his first stint as manager from 2016 to 2018, he guided Los Blancos to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles (2015-2016, 2016-2017, and 2017-2018). This achievement firmly established him as one of the club’s most successful coaches.
In Conclusion
Zinedine Zidane’s time at Real Madrid will always be remembered with fondness by fans around the world. His departure after the 2006 World Cup marked the end of an era for both him and the club. However, his return as a coach has proved that his influence on Real Madrid transcends playing days.