short biography of zinedine zidane

Zinedine Zidane

Who Is Zinedine Zidane?

Zinedine Zidane was born on June 23, 1972, in Marseille, France. A three-time FIFA World Player of the Year, Zidane led France to victory in the 1998 World Cup and starred for clubs in France, Italy and Spain. His career ended in shocking fashion when he was expelled from the 2006 World Cup final for headbutting an opponent, though he remains regarded as one of the sport's all-time greats. Zidane took over as manager of Real Madrid in 2016, and went on to win three consecutive Champions League titles with the club.

Zinedine Yazid Zidane was born on June 23, 1972, in Marseille, France. The son of Algerian immigrants, Zidane learned to play soccer in the streets of La Castellane, a rough section of Marseille. After starring for local youth clubs, 14-year-old Zidane was discovered at a French Football Federation training camp by AS Cannes recruiter Jean Varraud, and spent the next three years honing his skills in Cannes' youth division.

Professional Career

Zidane made his first professional appearance for Cannes at 17, scoring a goal in his debut. He transferred to Bordeaux in 1992, and in ensuing years the attacking midfielder earned renown for his sterling all-around play. Prone to the occasional flash of temper, Zidane otherwise was the embodiment of control with the ball at his feet, seemingly knowing when to maneuver through the defense, find a teammate with a pinpoint pass or rocket a shot at the goal.

Zidane transferred to Juventus F.C. in Italy's prestigious Series A League in 1996. The move brought a marked increase in visibility and expectations, but Zidane proved he was up to the challenge by steering Juventus to an Italian Super Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, an Intercontinental Cup and a pair of Series A titles over the next two seasons.

At his peak when France hosted the 1998 World Cup, Zidane spearheaded Les Bleus' march through the tournament with his crisp passing and dribbling, and then scored twice as France shut down Brazil in the final, 3-0, to become a national hero. Two years later, Zidane again was the linchpin of the French team's run to international glory, which culminated with a 2-1 win over Italy for the European Championship.

In 2001, Zidane signed with Spanish club Real Madrid for a world-record transfer fee of more than $66 million. The investment paid immediate dividends, as the French import helped Real Madrid win the coveted UEFA Champions League title in his first year and La Liga the following season.

Zidane had indicated he would retire after the 2006 World Cup in Germany, and it appeared his career was heading for a storybook finish when France advanced to the final against Italy. Instead, it ended in shocking fashion when, enraged by opponent Marco Materazzi's comments to him in extra time, he slammed his head into the Italian player's chest. Zidane was thrown out of the game, and France subsequently lost on penalty kicks.

Real Madrid Front Office and Manager

Zidane joined Real Madrid's front office as an adviser and was named the club's sporting director in 2011. The following year, it was announced the French soccer legend would begin coaching at Real Madrid's youth academy, and in 2014 he was named coach of the club's B team.

In January 2016, Zidane took over as manager of Real Madrid's first team. While some doubted how he would fare in front of a demanding owner and fan base, the icon soon silenced the critics with his overwhelming success, becoming the first manager to win two and then three consecutive Champions League titles. He also led Real Madrid to two UEFA Super Cups, two FIFA World Club Cups, one Spanish title and one Spanish Super Cup, before announcing he was stepping down in May 2018.

However, Zidane was gone from the post for less than a year, as he returned to manage Real Madrid in March 2019.

In 2004, Zidane was named best European soccer player of the past 50 years by the UEFA Golden Jubilee Poll and was included in the FIFA 100, Pelé's list of the 125 greatest living players. He remains one of a handful of greats to win the FIFA World Player of the Year/Ballon d'Or award three times.

Appointed a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in March 2001, Zidane annually captains a team of soccer stars against a side led by fellow retired idol and U.N. Ambassador Ronaldo in a match for charity. In 2010, he also served as a high-profile ambassador of Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 World Cup.

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Zinedine Zidane
• Birth Year: 1972
• Birth date: June 23, 1972
• Birth City: Marseille
• Birth Country: France
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: One of soccer's all-time greats, Zinedine Zidane led France to victory at the 1998 World Cup, but was thrown out of the '06 Cup final for striking an opponent.
• Astrological Sign: Cancer
• Nacionalities

CITATION INFORMATION

• Article Title: Zinedine Zidane Biography
• Author: Biography.com Editors
• Website Name: The Biography.com website
• Url: https://www.biography.com/athlete/zinedine-zidane
• Access Date:
• Publisher: A&E; Television Networks
• Last Updated: October 2, 2019
• Original Published Date: April 2, 2014

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Short Bio » Football Coach » Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Yazid Zidane is a French resigned footballer and current Manager of Real Madrid. He played as an attacking midfielder for the France national Team, Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus and Real Madrid . Famous for his polish, vision, ball control and procedure, Zidane was named the best European footballer of the previous 50 years in the UEFA Golden Jubilee Poll. He is generally viewed as one of the best players ever. At club level, Zidane won the La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid, two Serie A class titles with Juventus and an Intercontinental Cup and a UEFA Super Cup each with both previously stated groups. His 2001 exchange from Juventus to Real Madrid set a world record charge of a proportional €75 million.

After retirement, Zidane got to be partner mentor at Real Madrid under Carlo Ancelotti for the 2013–14 season. Following a fruitful year in which the club won the UEFA Champions League and Copa del Rey, Zidane turned into the mentor of Real Madrid’s B group, Real Madrid Castilla. Zidane is as of now the supervisor of Real Madrid, assuming control over the position from Rafael Benitez as of January 2016.

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Zinedine Zidane: The Rise, Retirement, and Coaching Success of a Football Legend

Zinedine Zidane’s name resonates with brilliance on the soccer field. Known for his elegance and tactical intelligence, he’s not just a former professional player but a legend who’s left an indelible mark on the sport. From his masterful control and vision to his headlining moments in World Cups and European Championships, Zidane’s legacy is as much about his skill as it is about his passion for the game.

As a coach, Zidane has translated his on-field genius to the sidelines, leading Real Madrid to remarkable successes. This article delves into the journey of the man affectionately known as “Zizou,” exploring his extraordinary career and the impact he’s made on soccer worldwide. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about this iconic figure, there’s no denying that Zidane’s story is one of grit, grace, and a touch of magic.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Rise to Fame

Zinedine Zidane’s journey to football greatness began in the seaport city of Marseille, France. Born on June 23, 1972 , into a family of Algerian descent, the young Zidane discovered his love for the game in the streets of La Castellane, a neighborhood known for its working-class ethos. He joined the junior team of US Saint-Henri at the age of just 9. His burgeoning talent was quickly recognized and by the age of 14, he was singled out by scouts at the Cannes Academy, setting him on the path to professional play.

At Cannes, Zidane’s playmaking ability shone through. His technical skill , vision on the pitch , and graceful ball control made him stand out among his peers. He made his professional debut for Cannes in 1989, becoming a first-team regular by the following season. This marked a pivotal moment in his career as he helped the team secure a place in the French First Division for the first time in two decades.

AS Monaco was the next chapter in Zidane’s rise to stardom. His performance under coach Arsène Wenger’s tutelage was extraordinary. It was with Monaco that Zidane’s flair became widely recognized, leading the club to win the Ligue 1 Championship in 1997. His skillset expanded and his reputation grew, earning him the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award that same season. International scouts were now keenly watching Zidane’s progress, and his performances in the UEFA Champions League amplified his global appeal.

Zidane’s transfer to Juventus in 1996 marked his entry into the highest echelons of European football. During his five-year tenure with the Italian giants, he snagged two Serie A titles and was a pivotal force in Juventus reaching two consecutive UEFA Champions League finals. It was during this time that he was bestowed with one of football’s highest honors, the FIFA World Player of the Year award, which he won for the first time in 1998.

Playing Career: A Legacy on the Field

Following his remarkable achievements in Juventus, Zinedine Zidane’s career further ascended when he signed with Real Madrid in 2001. His transfer set a new world record fee at the time, signaling the high expectations placed upon his shoulders. At Real Madrid, Zidane’s prowess on the field became evident as he orchestrated the midfield , showcasing an exquisite blend of creativity, vision, and technical skill.

In his debut season with ‘Los Blancos’, Zidane scored a sensational left-foot volley in the UEFA Champions League final against Bayer Leverkusen. This goal is often cited as one of the greatest in Champions League history and sealed his legacy as a clutch player in pivotal moments. During his time at Real Madrid, he amassed an enviable collection of trophies, including La Liga title and Supercopa de España .

• La Liga titles : 1 (2002-2003)
• UEFA Champions League : 1 (2001-2002)
• Intercontinental Cup : 1 (2002)
• UEFA Super Cup and Supercopa de España : Various victories

Zidane’s international career with France also reached stratospheric heights. He captained ‘Les Bleus’ to victory in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, scoring twice in the final, and to the European Championship in 2000. His performances during these tournaments secured his place among the legends of the game.

He announced his retirement from professional football after the 2006 World Cup, leaving fans and peers to reflect on his impact. Zidane’s elegance on the ball, his match intelligence, and his ability to govern the ebb and flow of play have left an indelible mark on the sport. Up-and-coming players who admire Zidane’s legacy often try to emulate his play style, though few can match the natural finesse that defined his career. His influence transcends his list of accolades and continues to inspire those who marvel at the art of football.

The Iconic Moments: World Cups and European Championships

Zinedine Zidane’s prowess on the international stage is highlighted by some unforgettable moments that have cemented his place as a football legend. Representing France, Zidane’s performances at the World Cup and European Championships were nothing short of iconic.

1998 FIFA World Cup : Zidane’s most memorable moment came during the final against Brazil. He scored two critical headers in the first half, setting the course for France’s 3-0 victory . This triumph was more than just a win—it was France’s first World Cup title, and it established Zidane as a national hero.

Euro 2000 : Zidane continued to dazzle audiences with his skill and vision, playing a pivotal role in leading France to the European title. His penalty kick in the semi-final against Portugal and his free-kick against Spain were clear demonstrations of his vital influence on the team’s success. Their victory at Euro 2000 made them the first team to hold both the World Cup and European Championship simultaneously since West Germany in the 1970s.

2006 FIFA World Cup : At what was to be his final tournament, Zidane led France to the finals yet again. Notably, his performance against Brazil in the quarter-finals reminded fans of the magic he was capable of on his day, directing the play with elegance and purpose. The 2006 final is remembered for its highs and lows—Zidane scored a panenka penalty, a bold move in such a high-stakes game. However, his red card for headbutting an opponent became an infamous end to an otherwise stellar international career.

Throughout his time with Les Bleus, Zidane exhibited not just technical skill but also leadership, creativity, and the ability to thrive under pressure. His contributions at these major tournaments solidified his legacy and ensured that his influence on the game would continue to inspire players and fans around the world.

Retiring from Professional Playing

Zinedine Zidane’s retirement from professional football was a moment that echoed across the world of sports. Despite the dramatic ending to his career at the 2006 World Cup, Zidane had already announced his departure from professional playing before the tournament began. His final season with Real Madrid ended with the club’s victory in La Liga, marking another accolade for the midfield maestro.

One cannot discuss Zidane’s departure from the game without recognizing the mixed emotions it stirred among fans and players alike. His impact on the game was profound, and his absence left a void many found difficult to fill. Teams he played for experienced a noticeable change; Real Madrid, for instance, struggled to find a player of Zidane’s caliber to take up the mantle of playmaking genius in the subsequent seasons.

Post-retirement, Zidane’s influence didn’t fade. He transitioned into coaching, taking on an advisory role with Real Madrid, and later becoming their coach, where he continued to achieve success. His legacy as a player helped shape his coaching methodology, a blend of strategic acumen and a keen understanding of player dynamics.

Zidane’s retirement from the pitch did not signal an end but rather a transformation of how he influenced the sport. His playing style, characterized by elegance, vision, and exceptional skill, transitioned into his approach to management. He continued to manifest success, albeit from the sidelines, further cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats.

While fans may lament the absence of Zidane’s magical touch in active play, his continued presence in the football community ensures that his contributions to the game remain invaluable. His journey reflects the arc of an athlete who is not merely content with past glories but is consistently seeking new horizons.

Transitioning to Coaching: Zidane’s Success at Real Madrid

After hanging up his boots, Zinedine Zidane’s unwavering passion for football led him to pursue a coaching career. Real Madrid called upon their former star in 2014, initially appointing him as the coach of their B team, Real Madrid Castilla. Zidane’s leadership qualities and deep understanding of the game were evident from the start. His tactical acumen, honed from years on the pitch, set the stage for an impressive transition from player to coach.

By January 2016, Zidane was promoted to the helm of Real Madrid’s first team, stepping into a role that many consider one of the most pressure-filled jobs in the sport. Despite the high expectations, Zidane’s impact was immediate. He led Los Blancos to three consecutive Champions League trophies , a feat never before accomplished in the modern era of the tournament. Under Zidane, Real Madrid also clinched La Liga titles, cementing his legacy not just as a legendary player but also as a masterful coach.

Zidane’s coaching philosophy mirrors the grace and tactical brilliance he displayed as a player. He’s known for his man-management skills, his ability to motivate star-studded lineups, and his strategic mind that finds balance between defence and attack. Players under Zidane’s guidance often speak of his ability to instill confidence and create a cohesive team dynamic.

• 3 UEFA Champions League titles (2016, 2017, 2018)
• La Liga title (2017)
• 2 FIFA Club World Cups
• 2 UEFA Super Cups
• Spanish Super Cup

Zidane’s success at Real Madrid reshaped the club’s modern history and left an enduring mark on his coaching career. His seasoned approach to managing the intricate dynamics of a top-tier football team showcases the seamless way his experiences as a player translate into his coaching methods. With each match and each victory, Zidane’s legacy continues to grow, proving that his touch on the game is as golden from the sidelines as it was on the field.

Zidane’s Coaching Style and Strategy

Zinedine Zidane’s transition from a legendary player to a successful coach isn’t incidental . With his sleek management, Zidane brought to Real Madrid a unique coaching style that merges tactical flexibility with a deep understanding of player psychology.

At the heart of Zidane’s strategy lies his superb man-management skills . He’s renowned for his ability to relate to his players, a trait that fosters a united team spirit and loyalty. This personal approach allows him to manage the egos in a star-studded lineup effectively and ensures that each player performs to their potential.

His tactical approach is often described as pragmatic yet adaptable . Zidane doesn’t adhere to a single formation or style of play. Instead, he analyzes his squad’s strengths and the opposition’s weaknesses, adjusting his tactics accordingly. This adaptable strategy has been instrumental in the team’s ability to overcome various challenges during league and European campaigns.

• Rotation Strategy : Zidane often employs rotation to keep his squad fresh throughout the season, which is critical considering the demanding fixtures that come with playing for a top-tier club like Real Madrid.
• Counter-Attacking Play : He is also noted for masterminding a swift counter-attacking play, using the pace and skill of his attackers to transition rapidly from defense to offense.

Zidane’s training sessions focus on high-intensity drills and situational play, ensuring his team can execute well-planned strategies during high-pressure matches. He emphasizes the importance of controlling the midfield, viewing it as the pivotal area that links defense with attack.

While his composed demeanor on the sidelines may be misconstrued as laid-back, his attitude keeps the team calm and collected. Zidane’s embrace of modern football analytics has added a layer of sophistication to his coaching, allowing fine-tuning of tactics based on detailed performance data.

The results are a testament to his effective coaching methodology, with Real Madrid’s success under his leadership undisputed within the football fraternity. His legacy as a coach, much like his time as a player, continues to evolve —challenging and inspiring the current generation of football tacticians.

Impact on the Sport: Zidane’s Legacy

Zinedine Zidane’s storied career and his transition from a world-class player to a top-tier coach have left an indelible mark on the world of football. His influence extends far beyond the trophies and titles; he has shaped the modern game with his vision and approach. Zidane’s legacy is multifaceted, influencing players, fans, and aspiring coaches around the globe.

As a player, Zidane brought elegance and creativity to the midfield, transforming the role into a position of not just tactical importance but also one that could win games with a moment of genius. His playing style fostered a sense of artistry that is emulated by young players who view him as an icon of the sport. His touch, vision, and execution on the field were a testament to his dedication and skill, making the difficult look effortless.

Zidane’s coaching career at Real Madrid has reinforced his tactical prowess . Future coaches study his methods and success, analyzing his ability to adapt tactics effectively against varied opponents. He’s known for placing trust in his squad’s depth, highlighting the importance of every player’s contribution, irrespective of their star status. This has fostered a strong sense of team unity and respect for the coach that resonates throughout the club.

Moreover, Zidane’s tenure at Real Madrid will be remembered for introducing a culture of winning while maintaining a palpable sense of humility. His coaching style reflects the embodiment of Real Madrid’s ethos, where victory and style are of paramount importance. His emphasis on team chemistry and the collective over individual heroics has proven that success is a byproduct of unity, hard work, and strategic planning.

Throughout the football community, Zidane’s influence is unmistakable . Players look up to him, rivals respect him, and fans adore him for the memories and the mark he’s made on the sport. His contributions on and off the pitch have not only furthered the game’s global popularity but have also enriched its character and spirit.

Zinedine Zidane’s legacy transcends his playing days, as he’s carved out a remarkable chapter in football history through his coaching achievements. His seamless transition from player to coach at Real Madrid showcases his deep understanding of the game and his ability to inspire greatness. The respect he commands from players, the admiration from fans, and the accolades from his coaching career are a testament to his enduring influence on the sport. Zidane remains a towering figure in football, embodying the spirit of excellence and the power of a united team. His story continues to inspire and his strategies on the pitch will undoubtedly influence generations to come.

Who is Zinedine Zidane?

Zinedine Zidane is a former professional football player and current coach for Real Madrid. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

When did Zinedine Zidane retire from professional football?

Zinedine Zidane retired from professional football in 2006 after the FIFA World Cup, which was marred by controversy due to his red card for headbutting an opposing player.

What impact did Zidane’s retirement have on the sport?

Zidane’s retirement left a void in the sport, as he was known for his exceptional skills and influence on the game. Teams he played for, such as Real Madrid, had to find a way to fill the gap left by his departure.

How did Zidane transition from player to coach?

Zidane transitioned from being a player to a coach after retiring from professional football. He started coaching at Real Madrid, where he achieved great success by using his playing style and deep understanding of the game.

What is Zidane’s coaching style?

Zidane’s coaching style emphasizes team chemistry and collective efforts over individual heroics. He believes in unity, hard work, and strategic planning as the key factors for success.

What is Zidane’s influence on the football community?

Zidane is highly influential in the football community. Players look up to him, rivals respect him, and fans adore him. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and a coach, are invaluable.

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Home › Players › Zinedine Zidane

• Zinedine Zidane

Z inedine Zidane is one of the most famous French football players of all time, widely regarded as a master of the fundamentals and techniques of the game. He is known for his excellent control and dribbling skills, his magic ball touch, his focused vision and great leadership traits. During his active soccer years, no player would surpass the way he controlled and received the ball. He scored 31 goals, out of his 108 international outings. Since his retirement, Zidane has actively participated in his beloved game as a manager. In his active years, he was celebrated as the top notch player for France . His excellence in football has bestowed Zidane some coveted awards and awards such as the FIFA World Player of the Year thrice, and the Ballon D'Or once.

Basic facts

Birth: 1972 Country: French Position: Midfielder

Cannes (1989–1992) Bordeaux (1992–1996) Juventus (1996–2001) Real Madrid (2001–2006)

Club football: 506 matches, 95 goals National team: 108 matches, 31 goals

Childhood and early life

Zinedine Zidane was born in Marseille, France, on June 23, 1972. At the tender age of five, young Zidane was introduced to the football game. Together with his neighborhood friends, he played football, at the main square of the housing complex known as, the Place Tartane. In his early days, his love for football was mainly influenced by Olympique Marseille players; Jean-Pierre Papin, Enzo Francescoli and Blaz Sliskovic who were his soccer stars idols.  At the age of ten, Zidane bagged his first player license for the junior team of a local club from La Castellane. He perfected his skills on the rough streets of La Castellane in Marseille, France. However, his term at the club was short lived and after about one and a half years he was transferred to SO Septemes-les-Vallons. His alliance with Septemes, however, lasted for about two and a-half-years, after which he among those selected for a three-day training in Aix-en-Province at the CREPS. While training at CREPS, his skills were ascertained by AS Cannes recruiter, Jean Varraud, at a French Football Federation training camp. He was taken in where he spent his next three years, perfecting his skills in the Cannes' Youth division. 

Professional career

After his training in the Cannes' Youth division, Zinedine Zidane, pursued football as a professional career. He made his first professional appearance at Cannes, at the age of 17, scoring his first goal. In 1992, he was transferred to the Bordeaux as a midfielder. Here, he proved his sterling all-around soccer skills that propelled his popularity. However, he was prone to occasional episodes of temper. Nonetheless, he was the real embodiment of control, he knew how to work his way with the ball at his feet, how to maneuver through the defense, how to pass the ball to a teammate and how to rocket a shot at the goal.  In 1996, Zidane was later transferred to Italy's Juventus FC This transfer heightened his visibility and expectations in the pitch. In the next two seasons, he steered Juventus FC to an Italian Super Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, an Intercontinental Cup and a pair of Series A.  The peak of his career was in 1998 when France held the World Cup. Zidane steered Les Bleus through the tournament, where his dribbling and crisp passing skills scored two goals for France against Brazil in the finals. He became a national hero, by shutting down Brazil in the 3-0 win World Cup finals. In 2000, he once again spearheaded, the French's team to international glory at the European Championship where culminated a 2-1 win against Italy .  One year later, in 2001, Zidane was signed up by the Spanish Club, Real Madrid, for a world-record transfer fee of more than $66 million . This investment proved very fruitful, with Zidane, helping Real Madrid win the coveted UEFA Champions League title in his first year after he was signed up. The next season was also very successful, with his prowess skills helping Real Madrid win the La Liga .  In 2006, Zidane declared that he would retire soon after the 2006 World Cup held in Germany. However, at a turn of events, his career came to a premature end in the finals when France advanced to the finals with Italy. His career ended fashionably, when one of the opponents, Marco Materazzi enraged him with his comments (which according to Materazzi were "stupid words" about the opponent's sister ), in the allocated extra time. In return he slammed his head against the Italian's opponent's chest, leading to his automatic disqualification. Subsequently, France loosed to Italy on penalty kicks.

Legacy and Post Playing Career

Zinedine Zidane has created a legacy of his own in soccer with his many achievements and accolades. In 2004, he was named the best European soccer player of the past 50 years by the UEFA Golden Jubilee Poll. This, subsequently, led to his name being included in the FIFA 100, Pele's List of the 125 greatest living soccer players of all time. He also won the French Player of the Year Awards twice in the years, 1998 and 2002. Additionally, he is also one of the very few soccer players to win the FIFA World Player of the Year/ Ballon d' Or Awards three times.  In March 2001, Zidane was appointed as the United Nations Goodwill Ambassador. With this title, he annually, captains a team of soccer stars against a side led by fellow retired soccer idol and United Nations Ambassador, Ronaldo, in a charity match. In 2010, Zidane served as a high-profile ambassador for Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 World Cup.  In 2011, Zidane joined Real Madrid's front office as a chief adviser and was also named as the club's sporting director. Subsequently, in 2012, it was announced, that the French retired soccer legend, would start coaching at the Real Madrid Youth Academy. This was the first step towards a new career of calling the shots from the sidelines of his favorite game. In 2016, it was declared that Zidane would be the new coach of Real Madrid .

By Rosa Nelson

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References: http://www.biography.com/people/zinedine-zidane-9541232 http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/1421741.stm http://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/zinedine-zidane-5241.php Image source: FIFA – World Cup Official Film – The Grand Finale

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Zinedine Zidane Biography, Stats, Facts and Achievements

Zinedine Zidane is a former professional French footballer who played as an attacking midfielder in the national team for a very long period. Here we look at his biography, stats, facts and achievements.

Zinedine Yazid Zidane, popularly known as “Zizou”, is a former professional French footballer who played as an attacking midfielder in the juniors teams of France and eventually in the core national team for a very long period. He also played for clubs like Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus, and Real Madrid, and brought laurels for each of them.

Zinedine Zidane was born on 23 June 1972, in Marseille, France, to Smaïl and Malika. He has four older siblings. His family, which is of Algerian Kabyle Berber descent, resided in the northern Marseille suburb of La Castellane.

In 1989, Zizou earned his first professional contract with Cannes and made his debut in the French first division game against Nantes. In his first full season with Cannes, the club secured its first-ever European football berth by qualifying for the UEFA Cup after finishing fourth in the league. He made 61 appearances in his first three seasons for the club and scored six goals.

In 1992, Zidane became a part of Bordeaux and it was there that he began to attain international recognition. Some of his ecstatic moments of him in the club were, winning the 1995 Intertoto Cup after beating Karlsruhe and finishing runner-up against Bayern Munich in the 1995-96 UEFA Cup. He played in 139 games for Bordeaux and scored 28 goals.

In 1996, Zidane was signed by the then-current champion of UEFA, Juventus, for a five-year contract. Zidane's impact in the Italian club was immediate, as he was often instrumental in the 1996 Serie A title and Intercontinental Cup 1996. He scored seven times in the 32 matches and the club retained its title of Serie A even in the following season. He played in 151 games and scored 24 goals for the club in his tenure. He was twice named Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year.

In 2001, Zidane joined Real Madrid for a world record fee of 150 billion Italian lire for a four-year contract. In his very first season, Zidane scored the very famous match-winning volley hit against Bayer Leverkusen in the 2002 UEFA Champions League final. The voyage of glory went on in the next season as Madrid won the La-Liga 2003.

In 2004, he was declared the best European footballer in the history of UEFA. In 2006, he scored his maiden hat-trick, against Sevilla, and ended the season as the second highest goal scorer, only after Ronaldo.

He started playing football at the age of four. He got his first player’s license at the age of ten. He made his professional debut at the age of 17 and won the ‘World Cup’ at the age of 26. He went on to win the ‘European Championship’ when he was 28.

He joined the ‘Real Madrid’ club in 2001 for a then-world record fee of 150 billion Italian lire. It was the highest ever amount paid to a footballer for being transferred.

He made a comeback after announcing his retirement to lead France in the 2006 ‘FIFA World Cup.’ It was a fairytale finish to a fantastic career as France reached the finals under his meticulous guidance. However, his team could not win the ‘World Cup’ due to his absence in the penalty shootout.

He scored his first ‘World Cup’ goal at the finals of the 1998 ‘FIFA World Cup’ against Brazil. In the match, he scored two identical goals, both headers, leading France to victory. His outstanding performance in the match gave him national hero status.

Achievements:

Zidane was honored with the ‘FIFA World Player of the Year’ award thrice in 1998, 2000, and 2003. He has also won ‘FIFA World Cup Final Man of the Match’ awards, ‘FIFA 100 Greatest Living Footballers’ award, and ‘FIFA World Cup Golden Ball.’ He was part of the ‘FIFA World Cup All-Star Team’ and ‘FIFA World Cup Dream Team.’

Zidane won the ‘Ballon d'Or’ in 1998. He won the ‘European Player of the Year’ award four times in 1998, 2001, 2002, and 2003.

He is among the elite group of greats who have won both ‘FIFA World Player of the Year’ award and ‘Ballon d'Or’ award.

Zidane won the ‘French Player of the Year’ award twice in 1998 and 2002.

Must Read | Top 10 Greatest French Football legends of all time

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Table of Contents

Wiki/Biography

Zinedine Zidane as a child

Physical Appearance

• Weight : 80 Kg
• Eye color : Green
• Hair color : Bald

Family & Ethnicity

Parents, brothers, and sisters.

He is the youngest of five siblings. During the Algerian War in 1953, his parents, Smail and Malika migrated to Paris from Aguemoune in the Berber-speaking area of Kabylie in northern Algeria. They, therefore, drove to the northern suburb of La Castellane in the 16th arrondissement of Marseille in the 1960s.

“I have an affinity with the Arab world. I have it in my blood, through my parents. I am very proud to be French, but also very proud to have these roots and this diversity.” — Zidane’s interview with Esquire magazine.

His father worked as a storekeeper and night watchman in the departmental store, usually at night, while his mother was a housewife. By the norms of the community, known throughout Marseille for its high crime and unemployment rates, the family led a rather comfortable life. During his career, Zidane credits his severe upbringing and his father for his ‘guiding lights’.

Zinedine Zidane’s father

Zinedine Zidane’s mother

His siblings include Lila Zidane (Zidane’s business adviser), Farid Zidane (died of cancer on July 12, 2019, at the age of 54), Madjid Zidane (Maintenance agent in a swimming pool in Marseille; b. 17 October 1963), Nourredine Zidane (State engineer of the merchant navy at ETFIM Bejaia)

Nourredine Zidane

Madjid Zidane

Lila Zidane

Farid Zidane

Relationships, Wife, Children

At 17, Zidane met his prospective wife, Véronique Fernández (a descendant of Spanish immigrants from Aveyron), while playing football for Cannes in 1988-89. They got married in 1994.

Zinedine Zidane with his wife

They have four kids: Enzo Zidane Fernández (French professional footballer; born March 24, 1995), Luca Zidane Fernández (French professional footballer; born May 13, 1998), Theo Zidane Fernández (French professional footballer; born May 18, 2002) and Elyaz Zidane Fernández (French professional footballer; born December 26, 2005).

Enzo Zidane

Zinedine Zidane with his son Theo

Zinedine Zidane’s son Elyaz

Zinedine Zidane’s son Theo as a child

Zinedine Zidane with his son Luca

Zinedine Zidane’s family picture

Childhood picture of Zinedine Zidane’s kids

As a Player

In the beginning, planning to stay at AS Cannes for six weeks, Zidane remained for four years, playing at a professional level. When Zidane’s first coaches noticed him at Cannes, they witnessed how raw he was and how particularly sensitive he was to slurs directed at his ethnicity or family. In order to channel his anger and focus on his own game, Jean Varraud, his first trainer, gave him advice.  Against Nantes, in the French Division, 1 on May 18, 1989, Zidane made his professional debut with Cannes. The first goal he achieved for the club was also against Nantes on February 10, 1991, in a 2–1 win.

Zinedine Zidane in AS Cannes

During his four years with Girondins de Bordeaux, Zidane won the 1995 Intertoto Cup after beating Karlsruhe and finished second against Bayern Munich in the 1995-96 UEFA Cup, which he won in 1996. He won the Ligue 1 player of the year award in 1996.

Zinedine Zidane in Bordeaux

With a string of outstanding performances for Bordeaux and France, Zidane received offers to join Europe’s top clubs in the spring of 1996. During the close season, he opted to join UEFA Champions League champions Juventus. In his first season, he was named Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year. After Zidane’s first season at Juventus in 1997-98, the club won Serie A and the Scudetto with seven goals in 32 appearances. He won the Ballon d’Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 1998. Zidane was named Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year for the second time in 2001.

Zinedine Zidane in Juventus

Real Madrid

Alongside Luis Figo in midfield, Zidane led Real Madrid to the 2002-03 La Liga title and was named FIFA World Player of the Year for the third time. Despite losing his last season of club football without a trophy, Zidane scored a personal success in January 2006, with a hat-trick against Sevilla in a 4-2 win. During the season for Real Madrid, he was their second-largest assist provider and goalscorer, behind teammates Ronaldo and David Beckham.  He was named by Marca as a member of the ‘Best away XI in the history of Real Madrid’ in April 2013.

Zinedine Zidane in Real Madrid

International career

At the 1993 Mediterranean Games in Languedoc-Roussillon, Zidane was part of the French Under-21 team that won a bronze medal. On 17 August 1994, he made his first appearance for France as a substitute against the Czech Republic, which ended in a 2–2 draw after two goals.

1998 World Cup

In 1998, Zidane took part in his first FIFA World Cup, which was held in his home country of France. At the Stade de France, Zidane and the French took on defending champions and favorites Brazil for the 1998 FIFA World Cup Final. Zidane was named man of the match and became an instant national hero. He received the Legion of Honor later that year. In Paris, a million people lined the Champs-Élysées, around which celebrations were centered around the Arc de Triomphe.

Zinedine Zidane in 1998 World Cup

Zidane had been named UEFA’s Player of the Tournament.

Zidane in Euro 2000

2002 World Cup

After winning the world and European championships in 2000 and 2002, France entered the 2002 World Cup in Japan/Korea as favorites. However, a thigh injury suffered by Zidane before the tournament prevented him from playing in France’s first two games, and the France team failed to score a goal without him in either match.

Zinedine Zidane in 2002 World Cup

2006 World Cup

At coach Raymond Domenech’s insistence, Zinedine Zidane came out of retirement and was immediately reinstated as team captain. On May 27, 2006, Zidane earned his 100th cap for France against Mexico in a 1–0 friendly win, which also turned out to be his last game at the Stade de France.

Zinedine Zidane in 2006 World Cup

Coaching career

During the 2013-14 season, he served as Real Madrid’s assistant coach. Real Madrid announced he would be their new sporting director in July 2011. He was appointed as Carlo Ancelotti’s assistant coach in 2013 at Real Madrid.

Real Madrid Castile

Real Madrid announced in June 2014 that Zinedine Zidane would coach their B team, Real Madrid Castilla. Miguel Galán, director of CENAFE (Spanish National Center for Training Football Coaches), reported Zidane on August 29 for acting as head coach of Real Madrid Castilla without having the required coaching badges.

The Madrid club announced on 4 January 2016 that coach Rafael Benitez was to be dismissed and on the same day Zidane was appointed as their new manager on a two-and-a-half-year contract. Real Madrid beat Manchester City 1-0 on aggregate in the 2016 UEFA Champions League Final on May 4, with Zinedine Zidane as manager. Zidane-led Real Madrid won their 12th European Cup (La Duodécima) by winning the 2017 UEFA Champions League Final 4-1 against Juventus in Cardiff on June 3, 2017. Zidane achieved his first double as a club manager, a feat not achieved since 1956-57. Zidane became only the second manager other than José Villalonga to win the European Cup in his first two seasons in charge. It was on August 8 that he won 2-1 against Manchester United in the 2017 UEFA Super Cup. As a result, Zidane became the first manager to win back-to-back UEFA Super Cups since Arrigo Sacchi had done in 1990 for Milan. Zidane’s success saw him win FIFA’s Best Men’s Coach award in 2017. Zidane won his eighth trophy as a manager when Real beat Grêmio in the 2017 FIFA Club World Cup which was held in the United Arab Emirates in December 2017. As the third manager, alongside Bob Paisley and Carlo Ancelotti, he is the only one to win the European Cup three times, as well as the first to win the trophy in three consecutive seasons. Zidane announced his resignation as Real Madrid manager on May 31, five days after the Champions League final. Zidane cited ‘the club’s need for change’ as his reason for leaving.

Prizes/Honors

• 1998 FIFA World Cup champion Zidane was named to the All-Star team
• In 1998, he was awarded France’s Legion of Honor
• In 2000, he won the UEFA Euro and was named player of the tournament.
• At the 2006 World Cup, he won the Ballon d’Or as the player of the tournament.
• Ballon d’Or
• Zidane became the first manager to win the Champions League three times in a row.
• UEFA Super Cup
• FIFA Club World Cup twice
• Spanish Super Cup and the La Liga title.
• FIFA’s Best Men’s Coach in 2017 and won the Spanish Cup and the Spanish league.

Zinedine Zidane’s Autograph

• Team : Juventus and Barcelona
• Player : Cristiano Ronaldo

Controversies

Facts / anecdotes.

• He is the only manager in world football to win all three consecutive Champions League trophies.
• In the 1998 World Cup, he scored twice and helped his team win the championship.
• He took part in football matches that neighborhood children played in Place Tartane, an 80 by 12-meter square that served as the main plaza of the complex, from the age of five.
• Zidane hailed former Marseille stars Enzo Francescoli, Blaž Slišković, and Jean-Pierre Papin as his idols throughout his youth.
• A local club called US Saint-Henri in Castellane, where Zidane played as a junior at the age of ten gave the youngster his first playing license.

Zidane wearing a number 10 jersey

• Zidane is considered a French citizen as well as an Algerian citizen.
• A sports complex consisting of five-a-side football pitches owned and operated by Zidane is sponsored by Adidas.

Zidane in an advertisement for Lego

Zidane and David Beckham in an ad campaign of Adidas

Zidane standing near an Audi

Zidane in an advertisement for Dior

• During a Louis Vuitton ad in May 2010, Zidane played foosball with Diego Maradona and Pelé.

Cover of The Ultimate Edition FIFA 20 video game

• During a match in 2005, filmmakers Philippe Parreno and Douglas Gordon filmed Zidane with 17 cameras, to create the documentary Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait. Zidane is followed throughout the match. Music is provided by Scottish post-rock band Mogwai. The documentary was screened at the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival in 2009.

Muhammad Yunus and Zidane

President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and Zidane

• In the Family Guy episode “Saving Private Brian” on November 5, 2006, Zidane was seen headbutting an old lady in a parody of his headbutt against Materazzi.

The cover of La Mélancolie de Zidane (2006)

A bronze sculpture of Zidane and Marco Materazzi

• Zidane appeared in Shakira’s 2010 music video ‘Waka Waka’, in which he celebrates France’s victory at the 1998 World Cup.

• Sports presenter Les Murray collaborated with Australian band Vaudeville Smash to perform a tribute song to Zinedine Zidane, accompanied by a video featuring four footballers performing ball tricks wearing Zidane masks, one of which ended up headbutting a night watchman.

• Jordan’s Royal Center for Islamic Strategic Studies named Zidane one of the world’s 500 most influential Muslims in 2016, stating, “[Zidane’s] modest character endeared him to the general public.”
• Zidane, the last of the Galácticos era of world-class players that Real Madrid has brought in every year, scored a memorable winning goal, volleying his stronger left foot from the edge of the Champions League penalty area. 2002 UEFA League Final in Madrid’s 2-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen. Several people have cited this goal as one of the greatest goals in Champions League history. When Zidane scored, he ran towards the touchline with his mouth wide open, screaming with delight. It was one of his most emotional goal celebrations.

“Zinedine Zidane, 18 yards out, watches and waits, adjusts his body and, in one fluid movement, spins and catches him in full volley with his left foot. It flies over Hans-Jorg Butt. It was Zidane’s moment of apotheosis, more so than the 1998 World Cup final, because of the grace and beauty of the moment, because of his control of everything around him. He was Bruce Lee in slow motion as kung fu mayhem reigned.” — Rory Smith in The Telegraph, Top 20 Sporting Moments of the Decade: Winner of Zinedine “He dominates the ball, he’s a walking spectacle and he plays like he has silken gloves on each foot. It’s worth going to the stadium – he’s one of the best I’ve had never seen.” —Alfredo Di Stéfano on Zidane after he was named World Player of the Year in 2003.

• According to UEFA’s Golden Jubilee Poll, voted by supporters for the federation’s 50th anniversary, he was the best European player of the past 50 years.
• After announcing his intention to retire after the 2006 World Cup, Zidane played his farewell game, drawing 3–3 with Villarreal on 7 May 2006. Beneath the club logo were commemorative ZIDANE 2001 shirts –2006. “Thank you for the magic,” read a banner held by 80,000 fans at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Danone Nations Cup’s post on Twitter about Zinedine Zidane being the ambassador

• Zidane scored twice in the 2–2 draw with Malaysia on 24 February 2007 in a match in northern Thailand for children’s AIDS charity Keuydaroon. Zidane set up a Malaysian teammate for the second goal in front of a crowd of 10,000. Approximately $7,750 was raised. These funds were used to build two schools and 16 three-bedroom houses.
• He also appeared in the fifth annual Poverty Match in Malaga, Spain on November 19, 2008, which was also a draw; he was scoreless but provided the assist for his team’s second goal.
• It is common for fans to copy those they look up to and look up to. Zidane’s absolute brilliance at the 1998 World Cup led the world to copy him. As a result, many admired him and wanted to be associated with him; hence, a new hairstyle had swept the globe. Among the many people with his “monk” hairstyle, there are men, women, and children.
• Zizou  retired from football after playing in the 2006 World Cup final in Germany. Real Madrid was his last team, with whom he would conquer six titles. The French genius has maintained his ties with the club by working as a presidential adviser, assistant first team manager, manager of Castilla and currently, as manager of the first team.
• After reaching 100 selections, Zidane is the fourth French player to reach this milestone after Didier Deschamps, Desailly, and Thuram.
• In his role as Real Madrid coach, he won the unprecedented UEFA Champions League three times in a row (2016, 2017, and 2018).

Zinedine Zidane’s Instagram

Zinedine Zidane with his pet dog Eros

Zinedine Zidane gets a picture with his own statue at Adidas HQ

Zinedine Zidane in Adidas HQ

Zinedine Zidane posted on Instagram about his trip to Jaipur

Zinedine Zidane’s post about David Beckham

Zinedine Zidane’s first post on Instagram

References [ + ]

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In 1996, Zidane made a significant move to Juventus in Italy. During his time with the Bianconeri, he flourished as a central midfielder and became a key player in the team. Zidane’s time at Juventus was immensely successful, and he played a crucial role in helping the club win two Serie A titles (1997 and 1998). His standout moment at Juventus came in the 1996 UEFA Champions League final, where he scored a stunning volley in the final against Ajax to secure Juventus’ victory and lift the trophy.

However, Zidane’s crowning glory on the international stage came during the 1998 FIFA World Cup held in France. As the host nation’s star player, Zidane led Les Bleus to victory with a series of mesmerizing displays. He scored twice in the final against Brazil, both goals coming from powerful headers off corner kicks. France won the match 3-0, and Zidane was hailed as a national hero. His performances throughout the tournament earned him the Golden Ball, awarded to the best player of the World Cup.

In 2001, Zidane made a then-world record transfer to Real Madrid, becoming the most expensive player in football history at the time. At Real Madrid, he joined a star-studded team and formed part of the iconic “Galácticos” era, playing alongside other football legends like Ronaldo, Luis Figo, and Raúl. Zidane’s impact at Real Madrid was immediate, and he played a crucial role in helping the team win the UEFA Champions League in 2002, scoring a brilliant volleyed goal in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.

The pinnacle of Zidane’s club career at Real Madrid came in the 2002-2003 season when the team won the UEFA Champions League once again, defeating Juventus in the final. Zidane’s performances throughout the competition were exceptional, and he was instrumental in guiding Real Madrid to victory.

In 2006, Zidane announced his decision to retire from professional football after the FIFA World Cup held in Germany. Despite being 34 years old, he displayed remarkable skills and leadership, leading France to the final for the second time in his career. In what would be his last match as a professional footballer, Zidane scored a penalty in the final against Italy to give France the lead. However, his final moments on the pitch were marred by an infamous incident where he headbutted Marco Materazzi, resulting in a red card and ejection from the match. France eventually lost the final in a penalty shootout, but Zidane’s contributions to the national team over the years were invaluable.

After retiring as a player, Zinedine Zidane ventured into coaching. He initially worked with Real Madrid’s youth teams before becoming the head coach of the senior team. As a coach, Zidane enjoyed remarkable success, guiding Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles in 2016, 2017, and 2018, making him the first coach to achieve such a feat in the modern era of the competition. His tactical acumen, man-management skills, and ability to handle high-pressure situations earned him immense respect in the footballing world.

Throughout his football history, Zinedine Zidane has left an indelible mark on the sport. His elegant playing style, exquisite skill set, and ability to shine on the grandest stages have solidified his status as one of football’s all-time greats. As a player and as a coach, Zidane’s influence on the game is profound, and his legacy in football will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.

Zinedine Zidane family history

Zinedine Zidane comes from a family with Algerian Kabyle roots, and his heritage has been an important aspect of his identity throughout his life and football career.

Zidane’s parents, Smaïl and Malika Zidane, are of Algerian descent and immigrated to France in the 1950s. Zinedine was born on June 23, 1972, in La Castellane, a neighborhood in Marseille known for its diverse population. Growing up in this multicultural environment, Zidane was exposed to different cultures, languages, and traditions, which likely contributed to his open-mindedness and appreciation for diversity.

The Zidane family faced the challenges that many immigrant families experience in a new country. Zidane’s father, Smaïl, worked as a warehouseman, while his mother, Malika, took care of their five children, including Zinedine. Despite their modest means, the Zidane family maintained a strong bond, and their support played a crucial role in Zinedine’s journey to becoming a footballing legend.

Zidane’s love for football was evident from an early age, and he spent countless hours honing his skills on the streets of La Castellane. His natural talent and passion for the game quickly caught the attention of local football clubs, and he began his formal footballing education at AS Cannes, where he made his professional debut.

Throughout his football career, Zidane often expressed pride in his Algerian heritage, and he never forgot his roots. He once famously stated, “I am proud of my origins, proud to be Algerian-French.” Despite being born and raised in France, Zidane’s connection to his ancestral roots remained strong, and he became a source of inspiration for many Algerians and people of Algerian descent worldwide.

Zidane’s Algerian heritage also became a topic of conversation during significant moments in his career, especially when he represented France at the international level. He faced some criticism and questions about his identity during the 1998 World Cup, with some people questioning whether he felt more French or Algerian. However, Zidane remained steadfast in his identity and chose to focus on his love for football and representing his country on the pitch.

Zinedine Zidane’s family has always been a private and supportive unit, standing by him through triumphs and challenges. He is a loving husband to his wife, Véronique Zidane, and together, they have four sons: Enzo, Luca, Theo, and Elyaz. All four sons followed in their father’s footsteps and pursued careers in football, with some of them playing for Real Madrid’s youth teams during their development.

Overall, Zinedine Zidane’s family history reflects a story of hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of cultural identity. From humble beginnings in Marseille to becoming one of the most influential figures in football, Zidane’s journey is a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and the support of a united family. His success has not only made his family proud but has also inspired countless people from different backgrounds to pursue their dreams and embrace their heritage with pride.

Zinedine Zidane financial history

During his playing days, Zinedine Zidane was one of the highest-paid footballers in the world. He earned substantial salaries while playing for top clubs like Juventus and Real Madrid. His move to Real Madrid in 2001 set a world record transfer fee at the time, indicating the club’s significant financial investment in securing his talents.

Throughout his career, Zidane also enjoyed numerous lucrative endorsement deals with major brands, further bolstering his income. His status as a global footballing icon made him a sought-after figure for advertising campaigns and partnerships.

After retiring as a player, Zinedine Zidane transitioned into coaching. As the head coach of Real Madrid, he likely earned a handsome salary, considering the club’s stature and financial capabilities. His success as a coach, guiding Real Madrid to multiple UEFA Champions League titles, would have further enhanced his reputation and potential earning capacity.

Outside of football, Zidane has been involved in various philanthropic activities. He has supported charitable organizations and participated in initiatives aimed at helping disadvantaged communities, especially in his native Marseille and Algeria.

Regarding Zidane’s net worth, it’s important to note that it can be challenging to ascertain the exact figure due to the complexities of personal finances, investments, and various assets. Additionally, net worth figures can fluctuate over time depending on numerous factors.

For the most up-to-date information about Zinedine Zidane’s financial status, I recommend consulting reliable financial news sources or conducting a search online. Keep in mind that individual financial details are often private, and some public figures prefer not to disclose their full financial histories.

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Zinedine Zidane

• Birthdate 6/23/1972
• Nationality France

Career History

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Zinedine Zidane Bio

Bio of zinedine zidane.

1972 Marsella

Zinedine Zidane (born 23-06-1972) is a soccer coach who manages Real Madrid Club de Fútbol in Spain's La Liga Santander first division. Born in Marseille , France, he was a former footballer of recognized standing. Of Algerian descent , Zidane is the youngest of five siblings in the Zidane family: Farid (deceased), Lila, Djamel and Nourredine. His father, Smaïl, emigrated to Marseille in the 1960s, where he met his wife Malika. Zinedine started playing soccer in the troubled neighborhood of La Castellane. In addition, along with his brother Farid who passed away in 2019 due to cancer, he practiced judo in his youth; although he eventually opted for soccer to become one of the best in history.

Youth and first steps in soccer

The Zidane family was supported by his father's salary, who worked in a supermarket. Zinedine was an admirer of Olympique Marseille's Uruguayan footballer Enzo Francescolli - one of the reasons why one of his sons has that name. At the age of fourteen, he went to Cannes , where he lived in the house of Jean Claude Elineau, one of the club's directors. It was there that he began his career as a professional footballer, making his debut for the Cannes first team at the age of sixteen (May 1989), a month shy of his seventeenth birthday. It took just two years for Zidane to establish himself in the starting line-up with the French side, where he would express his qualities on the pitch and put aside his shyness off it.

In 1992, he moved to Bordeaux , where he established himself as one of the best French midfielders of the moment in one of the most important clubs in the country. Two years later, he would make his debut for France against the Czech Republic , and Zidane's legacy was beginning to take shape. A good performance at Euro 1996 with the French national team led him to be signed by one of the most prestigious teams in Europe, Italy's Juventus in 1996 .

A momentous step in his career

This was the best possible showcase for Zidane, who played in the 1998 European Cup final against his future club, Real Madrid. A year earlier they had played against Ottmar Hitzfield's Borussia Dortmund, and both finals ended in defeat. Despite this, his stay in Italy was more than satisfactory, winning two Scudettos (1997, 1998), a European Super Cup (1996) and an Intercontinental Cup (1996). Juventus' slump in form went hand in hand with Zizou's, although an excellent performance with France, again, at the 1998 World Cup in which they were crowned champions reaffirmed the idea that Zidane was one of the best players of the moment .

One more galactico at Real Madrid

With the turn of the millennium, changes were on the horizon at Real Madrid headquarters. Florentino Perez became President of the club after promising to sign Luis Figo , a player who belonged to Futbol Club Barcelona. With him came a series of signings in the years to come that made up one of the most exuberant squads in the history of soccer, the so-called "Madrid of the galacticos" era. Zinedine Zidane was the second of the signings that would make up this star-studded squad with a nickname that they themselves did not like. Then came Ronaldo Nazario and David Bechkam, reaffirming FIFA's idea that Real Madrid had been the "best club of the 20th century" .

Protagonist of one of the best goals in history

There, Zinedine Zidane would form a close relationship with Florentino Perez, who has shown from the beginning his admiration for the Frenchman. He was leaving Juventus for five years, in which the achievement of a Champions League would have been the culmination of a great five years in Italy. In his first season he managed to win the title after beating Bayer Leverkusen at Hampden Park , where he scored one of the best goals in the history of soccer. It was after a pass from Roberto Carlos , who arrived in a hurry to the back line to the long pass sent to him by Solari . Zidane was on the edge of the area, seemingly in no danger. The Brazilian hit the ball, which traced a downward parabola, finding the left boot of the Frenchman, who, after resting his right leg on the ball, shaped his body to draw a perfect line in which the ball crashed into the net in the form of a volley. This goal was the second and final goal of the match, after Raúl's first and the Germans' equalizer. In this way, Real Madrid became the winner of the ninth Champions League. It would take twelve years to win the 'tenth', this time with Zidane on the bench as Ancelotti's second in command.

Decline and retirement

After winning the Champions League in the 2001-2002 season, Real Madrid won La Liga the following year, as well as the Spanish Super Cup, the Intercontinental Cup and the European Super Cup . Then came years of drought in which the squad was being questioned. Vicente del Bosque left the club with controversy and Real Madrid began a period of reconstruction, where the great stars that had shone at Chamartín ended up leaving. Thus, the former player from Marseille hung up his boots at the age of thirty-four .

Career with the French national team

Zinedine Zidane made his debut with the French national team in 1994 , at the age of 22, when he was still playing in France for Girondins de Bordeaux. He wore the blue jersey of France one hundred and eight times, scoring thirty-one goals . He played in three European Championships (winning in 2000) and three World Cups (winning France 98'). His last professional match was in the final of the 2006 World Cup in Germany, against Italy . It was not the best possible farewell to the field of play for Zinedine, as he was sent off the pitch after headbutting Materazzi in the chest . In addition, the Italians snatched the World Cup title from them.

Coaching career

After his retirement as a professional footballer Zinedine Zidane was assistant to Carlo Ancelotti in the 2013/2014 season, the year in which the 'tenth' was achieved. This was followed by two years as a coach in the reserve team, at Real Madrid Castilla, where he was not so fortunate and failed to promote them to the second division. In January 2016 he became Rafa Benítez's replacement . A few months were enough for him to win his first title as coach, achieving nothing more and nothing less than the UEFA Champions League against Atlético de Madrid in Milan. He thus became one of the personalities who has managed to win the Champions League as a player and as a coach. One League, two Spanish Super Cups, two Club World Cups, two European Super Cups and three European Cups. This is the greatest feat he has achieved as a coach, as he has become the first coach in history to win Europe's premier competition at least twice in a row, doing so three times . One of them was against Juventus, and the last one against Liverpool.

Family life

Zinedine Zidane is married to Véronique Zidane , with whom he has four children. All of them are dedicated to soccer, as his father did several years before.

Biography by Jorge Cascón Guerra

Facts about Zinedine Zidane You Probably Didn’t Know

Zinedine Zidane is so big everyone knows about him, but if you still want to know about Zidane’s biography, Zidane’s family, Zidane’s sons, Zidane’s parents, Zidane's stats, and even Zidane’s headbutt plus several other facts you might not probably know about him, just stay with us!

And what these facts might be? Do you know what the name "Zinedine Zidane" means in Arabic? What is Zidane’s net worth? or how he and his wife met? What do Zidane’s sons do in life and how many children does the Frenchman have?

Where was Zinedine Zidane born

? And what about

Zidane’s sister

and brothers? How many siblings does he have and what they do in their life? This post aims to not only answer all these questions but also to delve a little deeper into the

facts about Zinedine Zidane

Facts about Zinedine Zidane, the legendary former French footballer

We just start with

Zidane’s biography

; in fact, a short one, and then continue to other facts about the former legendary French footballer.

Zinedine Zidane’s Biography (short)

Born in June 1972 (aged 48 by now) in La Castellane, Marseille, France, Zinedine Yazid Zidane known as Zinedine Zidane or Zidane, is a French football legend who played for top-tier clubs such as Real Madrid and Juventus during his footballing career. He currently manages Real Madrid, and is among those

Zidane’s family

were among immigrants who had immigrated from the village of Aguemoune in North Algeria to South France in 1953 before the start of the Algerian war. The immigrants were called “Beurs” which is a slang term for Arabs in French.

Zidane was born in La Castellane, a crime-driven community in the south of France near Marseille mostly known for its high unemployment, crime and suicide rates. Despite this, Zidane was raised in good conditions with his father having a full-time job as a warehouseman.

However, he was sometimes subject to insults that were aimed at his race. Maybe that’s why, as once revealed by the French legendary footballer, that he struggled with other boys and didn’t have a good attitude at school.

READ MORE: 

Considered as on the of the greatest footballers of all time, Zidane is a Muslim and from Algerian descent. He started football from the age of 5 when he played the game with children in the neighborhood at Place Tartane which was a 80-by-12-yard plaza and the main square of a housing complex.

Zidane’s footballing idols as a child were former

 players, Blaž Slišković, Enzo Francescoli and Jean-Pierre Papin. One interesting fact about Zidane is that he also did other sports as a boy like skateboarding, cycling, and Judo - he had a green belt in the martial sport.

Zidane started his youth career with AS Foresta in 1981 and played until the age of 14 for two other clubs, namely US Saint-Henri and SO Septèmes-les-Vallons, before he joined Cannes in 1986 with whom he remained until 1992 - 3 years as a youth player and 3 years as a senior one.

Even at Cannes, Zidane’s proneness to insults aimed at his race continued and made him do unreasonable things . He once worked as a cleaner for a few weeks at the same club as a punishment for punching one of his opponents who had mocked his origins.

Zidane scored his first senior career goal for Cannes in February 1991 in a match against Nantes that ended in Cannes 2-1 win. After the match, Zidane was rewarded a car for his first goal for the club by Cannes chairman, Alain Pedretti, who had promised the reward to the young Zidane earlier. Zidane served

 for 4 years after his spell at Cannes and before he joined the Serie A giants, Juventus, in 1996.

Zinedine Zidane’s Parents

Who are Zidane’s parents? Zinedine Zidane is the youngest child of Smail and Malika Zidane. Zidane’s father had a full-time job as a warehouseman and also as a night watch at a department store; his mother was and is a housewife. As you might have already guessed from this post, Zidane is of Algerian origin.

About his Arab origin, Zidane once said: “I have an affinity with the Arabic world. I have it in my blood, via my parents. I’m very proud of being French, but also very proud of having these roots and this diversity.” Zidane always refers to his father as the “guiding light” of his footballing career since he thinks he owes his success in the professional football to his father’s strict style of upbringing.

Zinedine Zidane’s sister and brothers

Zinedine Zidane has one sister and three brothers. Lila Zidane (

Zinedine Zidane’s sister

) is the executive secretary of Zidane Diffusion, a joint stock company that specializes in leasing intellectual property and similar products. Madjid Zidane, the oldest brother of Zinedine, is 56 years old and works as a maintenance worker at a swimming pool.

Farid Zidane who resembles Zinedine the most among his other siblings, was the managing director of Zidane Diffusion. He died of cancer at the age of 54. And finally Noureddine Zidane, acts as the right hand to his younger brother, Zinedine Zidane, accompanies him in his public appearances, and works almost like an agent for him.

Zidane’s Family

While a player at Cannes, Zidane met his future wife, Veronique Fernandez, who is of Spanish origin. They got married in 1994, and by now they have four sons together all of whom are also footballers. So,

is made up of six people: two parents and four sons. They are Enzo, Luca, Theo, and Elyaz born in 1995, 1998, 2002, and 2005, respectively.

Enzo is a midfielder at C.D. Aves; Luca is the goalkeeper of Racing Santander; Theo is a midfielder at Juvenil A (

’s youth academy) and Elyaz a defender at Cadete B (Real Madrid’s youth academy).

Zidane and his wife share one thing together and that is both of them come from a family of immigrants and naturally both of them know what poverty is. Zidane’s family have done much to help the poor - the reason is quite clear - like sponsoring charity events, helping orphans, and Zidane playing in charity games. “You don't need a reason to help people,” Zidane once said in an interview.

Where Does Zidane’s Nickname “Zizou” Come From?

Zizou! That’s Zidane’s nickname. Nobody knows where that nickname comes exactly from. Some say a friend of Zidane once called him Zizou, because Zidane reminded him of another professional footballer known also as Zizou. Yet some other say the easiest nickname that came to mind was Zizi.

However, many fans shied away from using Zizi because in French “Zizi” is a slang term referring to the male private organ. So, the fans invented Zizou to call their champion. The same nickname that they chanted when Zidane was back to France after winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

Zidane, One of the Most Expensive Players in the World

If Zidane’s record was not broken by

, He would still be the most expensive footballer ever in the history of Real Madrid. In its own time, Zidane’s transfer fee of €77.5 million was a world record, and Zidane was at least considered as one of the most expensive players at his own time.

Zidane is still considered as one of the most expensive footballers in the history of football; he ranks 20th among 50 footballers on the list of the

. The fact that Zidane was transferred to Juventus - prior to Real Madrid - for a mere transfer fee of around €3.4 million, shows how greatly he performed at the Serie A club that he made such a great leap in value.

The Most Number of Cards in the World Cup History

A violent player?! We don’t call him that! However, the fact is true. Zidane along with

and Rafael Marquez is a record holder in terms of the most number of cards received in the World Cup history. He received 6 cards in total (2 reds and 4 yellows) during his World Cup appearances.

And as you might probably know, the red card Zidane was shown in 2006 World Cup final against Italy for headbutting Marco Materatzi is the most notable red card he received not only in the World Cup but also throughout his career.

Zidane’s Honors and Achievements

Too many! In fact, more than 70 both as a player and manager; French Division 1 Player of the Year in 1995-96 season, Ballon d'Or in 1998, FIFA World Player of the Year in 1998, 2000, and 2003,

Footballer of the Year in 2000-01 season, LaLiga Best Foreign Player in 2001-02 season, and Golden Foot Legends Award in 2008 are just a handful of awards Zidane has won as a player.

And as a manager, Zidane has won LaLiga title in 2016-17 with Real Madrid, UEFA Champions League from 2015 to 2018, and FIFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in 2016 and 2017. Zidane was also named

 Manager of the Month in April 2016, and May 2017, the Best FIFA Football Coach in 2017, and Globe Soccer Awards Best Coach of the Year in the same year. And the list continues!

"I have won many awards and I am very happy about this, but I am not the best player in the world," said Zidane once about his achievements.

Zinedine Zidane is the Most Beloved French Footballer

According to a poll by the French newspaper, Journal du Dianche, Zinedine Zidane was voted the most beloved French footballer of all time. In Another poll by French TV channel, TF1, Zidane was elected as the best player of the French League in history.

Of course, there are other great names like

Michel Platini

, Lilian Thuram, Thierry Henry, and

Jean-Pierre Papin

, but Zidane is no less than them in terms of popularity and even more.

According to a stats website in UK (yougov.co.uk) Zinedine Zidane is the 1170th most popular person in the world of all time, and how Zidane’s fans describe him? By these words: winner, great performer, and technically brilliant, although he’s still best known as his nickname “Zizou” among his fans.

Zidane is One of the Highest Paid Managers in the World

Zinedine Zidane is the fifth highest paid football manager in the world with a monthly salary of €1.4 million. The first place belongs to Diego Simeone (

’s manager) with €3.6 million monthly.

After Simeone comes Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola with a monthly salary of  €1.94 million. And after Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp of Liverpool and Jose Mourinho of Tottenham sit jointly on the third position with a €1.46 million monthly salary.

So Zidane could be, in fact, the fourth highest paid manager in the world - if we count Klopp and Mourinho as one. And Zidane is only by €60,000 behind the two aforementioned coaches which is by no means a high amount in the football world. If he could fill up the deficit, he would be the second or third highest paid football manager in the world.

And the interesting fact here is that the next manager after Zinedine Zidane, namely Antonio Conte of

with a monthly salary of €1.38 million, is only by €20,000 behind the Frenchman, while the next position plunges suddenly in terms of numbers; that position belongs to Quique Setién of Barcelona with only €500,000 per month.

Zidane is the First French Manager of Real Madrid

have had around 43 managers throughout their history with only one of them being French: Zinedine Zidane. In fact, Zidane is the first French manager Real Madrid has ever had since its foundation 110 years ago, and the second most successful manager of the LaLiga giants in terms of the number of trophies won with ten trophies won in only four years. 

Zidane managed Real Madrid Castilla (Real’s second division team) for 2 years from 2014 to 2016, and since 2016 has been the Real’s senior team manager. During this time, Zidane has won one LaLiga title, two Supercopa de España (Spain Super Cup), three UEFA Champions League titles, two UEFA Super Cup and two FIFA Club World Cup trophies.

Zidane’s Endorsements

Adidas, France Telecom, Audi, Ford, Volvic, Christian Dior, and even Lego are a few of the most renowned companies Zinedine Zidane has had endorsements with.

The endorsements Zidane has had with several companies have earned him at least €8 million which is even higher than the salary he receives. Thanks to all the bucks the endorsements brought in for Zidane, he became the sixth highest paid footballer in the world in 2006.

Zidane has also appeared in a commercial for Louis Vuitton - a French fashion house and luxury retailer - where he played table football with football legends ever,

. In fact, it was with Pele, because Maradona kept all waiting for 4 hours! Zidane also features on the cover of the Ultimate Edition of FIFA 20 video game.

Zinedine Zidane’s Wife, Veronique Zidane

Born to Spanish parents in November 1971 in Rodez, France, Veronique Fernandez Lentisco known as

Veronique Zidane

since her marriage to Zinedine Zidane in 1994 is a former dancer who left her studies at the university (in the field of biology) to pursue her passion: dancing, though she also quitted that a few years later to play her supportive role in her husband’s footballing career.

Zidane and Veronique met each other in 1989 when they lived in a strictly-gender-separated neighborhood. They saw each other from time to time until one day Zidane let out a “hello” that actually ignited their relationship.

Five years later, in 1994, the couple married to each other at Bordeaux town hall. One interesting fact about

is that she even hated football before she married Zinedine Zidane, though that hate also changed to a liking after her marriage to the Frenchman.

Zinedine Zidane’s Net Worth

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Zinedine Zidane’s estimated net worth until the end of 2019 is something around $70 million. This net worth has definitely come from Zidane’s salary as a manager that has been doubled since 2017, his investments and the endorsements he has already done with brands like Adidas, Audi, and France Telecom.

They say Zidane has several luxury cars including a Range Rover worth $53,000, an Audi worth $100,000, and a Ferrari worth $200,000. He also owns a private yacht but not yet a private plane, though he is able to! The Frenchman currently lives with his family in a mansion worth $2.5 million located at Madrid.

Zinedine Zidane’s Charity Acts

So many that we cannot count them all here, but here are a few of them: Zidane played in a charity match in Thailand that raised $7750 for a children AIDS charity called Keuydaroon. One year later in 2008, Zidane took part in the Match Against Poverty - a friendly match held since 2003 to raise funds for UNDP (United Nations Development Program).

Zinedine Zidane has been a UN Goodwill Ambassador since 2001; in June 2010, he also played for the Rest of the World Team in Soccer Aid which is a British charity event to raise funds for UNICEF.

Zidane took part in another charity match in 2013 against

as a member of Manchester United Legends Team to raise funds for the Manchester United Foundation projects helping disadvantaged young people in Manchester.

Zidane’s Religion

As you might have guessed from Zidane’s roots, he is a Muslim but a non-practicing one; and despite this, he was named as one of the most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan that once observed Zidane’s modest character as a factor that “has endeared him to a wider public.”

One interesting fact about Zidane and his religion is that although he’s non-practicing Muslims, he himself once revealed in a TV interview that when he played for

, he read Ayat al-Kursi - a short verse from Quran - to himself before each game. Maybe to take advantage of the Quranic verse magical effects or? As Zidane himself once revealed, in his opinion, non-practicing doesn’t mean non-believing.

What does Zidane’s name mean in Arabic?

That’s a good question! To many, Zidane’s name is just a simple Arabic name, but did you know that there is a meaning to his name? Here is what the French beloved footballer’s name mean: Zinedine is actually the combination of Zayn and adeen in Arabic, with the former meaning beauty and the latter the path or way. So Zaynadeen (Zinedine) means the beauty of the path or the beautiful one of the path.

You know Zidane’s complete name is Zinedine Yazid Zidane. Yazid means the one who increases and Zidane is actually Zaydan in Arabic which means overabundant twice but not twice overabundant – there is a little difference between the two if you consider them closely.

So Zinedine Zidane means the beautiful one of the path (the path of football if you like!), the one who increases (advances in the profession) and the one who is overabundant twice (in talent and ability).

Zidnane’s headbutt in 2006 World Cup Final

Zidane’s headbutt

, that’s what all of us know about, but if we are to Zinedine Zidane facts, then not mentioning his headbutt is a crime! They said, in that incident, Materazzi had insulted Zidane’s mother, but an interview with the Italian international ten years later in 2016 revealed something else: The Italian man had actually insulted

, not his mother.

Materazzi said in the interview that since he had lost his mother when he was 15, he never insulted one’s mother including Zidane’s. The Italian defender never clarified what he had actually said to Zidane in that incident but he revealed that it was something stupid, yet insisting that his insult was far less insulting than the words one might hear on the streets of Naples, Milan, or Paris.

Zinedine Zidane’s stats

The last thing we are to is

. The former French legendary footballer is 48 years old by now (2020). He’s 185 cm tall and weighs 79 kg. So, he’s still a slim type.

Zidane played for four clubs, namely Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus, and Real Madrid, during his footballing career as a player that lasted 17 years - from 1989 to 2006.

Zinedine Zidane also played for France national team from 1994 to 2006 and scored 31 goals in the 108 appearances he made for his country’s national team. At the club level, he made 506 appearances for the clubs he played for and scored 95 goals for them. From 2014 on, Zidane has acted as Real Madrid manager, and he is still the LaLiga giants boss.

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Zidane: A 21st-Century Portrait

(92 mins, PG) Directed by Douglas Gordon and Philippe Parreno ; starring Zinedine Zidane

Zidane: A 21st-Century Portrait is an art work, which is to say it's a self-conscious piece by a two video installation artists, Paris-based Philippe Parreno and Scotsman Douglas Gordon. Throughout a 2004 match between Real Madrid and Villarreal, they focused 17 super-35mm cameras on the home side's star midfield player, Zinedine Zidane. We see him in close-up and long shot; take in a lot of his shirt ('Zidane 5' on the back, 'Siemens Mobile' on the front) and his boots (enough to satisfy the most desperate foot fetishist); watch him spit, sweat, gesture, shout, pull up his socks, smile (twice), laugh at an unexplained joke (once), show some brilliant ball control; set up a goal (though the directors have to cut in a TV clip to show Ronaldo scoring it); and finally witness him joining a fight and getting a red card.

Along the way, there are subtitles quoting Zidane on his craft in terms not entirely unlike the gnomic reflections of his fellow Frenchman, Eric Cantona. It's hypnotic, self-indulgent and lacking in context, rather like doting parents at a nativity play concentrating on their daughter's Mary or their son's Joseph to the exclusion of the other performers and the Gospel message. But you do want to talk about it afterwards.

• Zinedine Zidane
• Documentary films

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Marseille se fait chambrer à cause de Zidane

Le 8 mai dernier, la flamme olympique est arrivée sur le sol français, à Marseille. Zinédine Zidane était attendu de pied ferme par le peuple marseillais, pour allumer le premier chaudron olympique. Mais ce fut finalement le rappeur Jul qui s'est prêté à l'exercice, décevant certains Marseillais. À Bordeaux, il était bien là pour fêter les 100 ans du Parc Lescure, pour le plus grand bonheur de Pierre Hurmic, le maire écologiste de Bordeaux.

Né à Marseille, Zinédine « Yazid » Zidane n'y a pourtant jamais joué. Après quelques années à l'AS Cannes, les Girondins de Bordeaux le recrutent et il y joue entre 1992 et 1996, avant de filer à la Juventus. Véritable idole à Bordeaux, il a fait un joli geste auprès des fans girondins ce mardi.

Zidane joue pour les 100 ans du Parc Lescure

Ce mardi avait lieu un bel évènement pour les fans des Girondins de Bordeaux . Pour fêter les 100 ans du Parc des sports de Lescure sur lequel a été construit l'ancien stade des Bordelais en 1938, un match de gala a eu lieu, entre l'équipe du Variétés Club de France et l'équipe All Stars de Bordeaux . Du beau monde était présent sur la pelouse du stade Jacques Chaban-Delmas, nouveau nom du Parc Lescure depuis 2001 avec notamment Alain Giresse, Christophe Dugarry, Yoann Gourcuff, Marius Trésor et évidemment Zinédine Zidane . Une présence qui a ravi les 32 000 supporters qui ont garni les tribunes de l'enceinte accueillant désormais l'UBB .

Mercato - PSG : Zidane attend Mbappé au Real Madrid https://t.co/Zt9U3FmldQ pic.twitter.com/GKLqdWclHq — le10sport (@le10sport) May 14, 2024

«On a réussi à faire venir Zidane. Marseille a essayé mais ils n'ont pas réussi»

Cette présence notable de l'un des plus grands joueurs de l'histoire du football a donné lieu à un léger chambrage de la part du maire de Bordeaux, Pierre Hurmic. Dans des propos rapportés RMC Sport , l'élu bordelais a prononcé ces mots : « On a réussi à faire venir Zidane. Marseille a essayé de le faire venir pour le passage de la flamme, mais ils n'ont pas réussi . »

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Adam Bessa, The Award-Winning Star Of Cannes Critics’ Week Opener ‘Ghost Trail’, Has Big Fish To Fry – Ones To Watch

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When he won the Un Certain Regard jury’s joint Best Actor prize for Harka in 2022, Adam Bessa wasn’t onstage to accept it. He’d figured he didn’t stand a chance, so he’d gone fishing in Marseille instead and was struggling with a seabass when the call came. He laughs. “‘You have to come back,’ they said. I was like, ‘Nah. I’m in the middle of nowhere right now, I can’t.’ So, I made a little video instead.”

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Though the character he plays is fictional, the story is deeply based on fact. “It’s maybe the darkest film I’ve ever done,” says Bessa. “This guy’s lost pretty much everything. He lost his wife and his daughter during the war, and he’s got nothing left except vengeance. I mean, he’s asking himself question, ‘Should I bring him to justice or should I kill him myself?’ It’s a question that I think is really, really interesting. When something bad has happened to you, do you try to break the cycle of vengeance, or do you create another circle?”

“It’s hard to explain,” he says. “It was not physically challenging, it was more mentally disturbing because it was really a dark place to work in, in order to find this character. Usually, darkness comes with melancholy, but, here, melancholy didn’t have a place. It was intense, but it was really interesting to dive into that.”

To do so, Bessa — who formed a duo called Illi several years ago — drew on his passion for music. “When I prepare a character, I always ask the director if he has a score already in mind, and then I make my own playlist for my own character,” he says. “But it’s really a way to get into the emotion of a film. For me, a film is a mood, really, that the audience is going to dive into.”

The 32-year-old French Tunisian is doing pretty well right now, considering he only turned to acting at the age of 21 after a career in football didn’t work out. “I moved to Paris and then I started asking around,” he recalls. “How do you become Robert De Niro? I had no f*cking idea how to do it.” After a lot of hustling, he got an agent, and through that, he met the Russo brothers, who cast him first in Mosul then their Extraction series. “We have a great relationship,” he smiles. They’ve been like godfathers in the American industry. They’ve always been there for me.”

Currently waiting to see whether Amazon will go for another season of hit French series The Source , in which he stars as the outwardly respectable head of a cannabis-dealing crime family, Bessa has plenty in his life to be getting on with. So, what’s on his bucket list? “I’d like to meet Zinedine Zidane and play a little bit of football with him, and maybe do a film with Daniel Day Lewis. I heard Christopher Nolan is bringing him back from retirement. So, yeah, I guess I’d like to play football with Zidane, maybe swim with sharks, and act with Daniel Day Lewis.”

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