Did Zinedine Zidane’s Love for Kroos, Modric, and Benzema Overlook Cristiano Ronaldo?
Zinedine Zidane, the French football legend, is known for his impressive managerial career, but a recent interview has sparked some interesting debate. When discussing the three players who impressed him the most during his time at Real Madrid, Zidane shockingly did not mention Cristiano Ronaldo.
Now, before we dive into the details, let’s talk about the context. Zidane had two stints as the Madrid boss, winning three Champions League titles in the span of two and a half years. During his first spell, Cristiano Ronaldo was a key player, but he left the club just a year before Zidane’s return in 2019.
Fast-forward to Zidane’s second stint, and he praised Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Karim Benzema, stating, "When you see these players playing for you for an hour without losing a single ball, that is football."
Kroos and Modric were the engine room of Zidane’s all-conquering side, and it’s no surprise he held them in high regard. Both midfielders were instrumental in the team’s success, with Kroos’ precision passing and Modric’s vision and goal-scoring ability making them a dynamic duo.
Benzema, on the other hand, represented a different dynamic. As a French-Algerian player, he shared Zidane’s cultural heritage, and their bond was likely strong. Benzema’s goalscoring form was vital in Madrid’s push for silverware, and his partnership with Karim Benzema up front was a key factor in their success.
Now, it’s interesting to note that Zidane’s praise for these players may be due to their technical ability and work rate, qualities that he, as a former midfielder, would appreciate. Perhaps Zidane’s comments are a testament to the importance of midfield control and clinical finishing in modern football.
As we fast-forward to the present, it’s fascinating to see how these players have fared. Kroos and Benzema have retired, while Modric is still going strong at 39. He’s now the club’s oldest player and has broken Ferenc Puskas’ record that had stood since 1966.
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