Zinedine Zidane has come to Cristiano Ronaldo’s defence, praising the forward’s international career. The two worked together for many years at Real Madrid. Asked ahead of the Nations League match against Belgium whether the Portuguese forward had finished his career poorly, the coach answered emphatically: “No, I think he deserves to be congratulated on his great career. What he did is exceptional.”
Zidane also played down the controversy surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent departure from Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen. “I was lucky to have him with me and he helped me win incredible things, so I take my hat off to Cristiano. I will always have great respect for him,” he said, adding that Ronaldo had helped bring them shared success.
Their time together at Real Madrid came during a glorious period for the club, from 2016 to 2018. Now in charge of France, Zidane has secured two away wins, against Turkey and Belgium, as well as a draw in Paris against Italy in his first home match as national-team coach.
He believes the move from club to international management changes the setting, but not the level of demand. At a club, he explained, the work is daily and all-consuming. His new role gives him a different approach, while preserving the same commitment to working well with his team.
GeneralBeaten by Valentin Vacherot in the quarter-finals in Tokyo, Arthur Fils felt the match turned on a handful of points. The Frenchman regretted allowing his opponent back into the first and third sets after taking the break.
GeneralThe former Manchester United midfielder sharply criticised Ten Hag’s treatment of players. He described repeated tensions within the squad and revisited the dispute with Cristiano Ronaldo.
GeneralThe coach says he put his hands on his head after Lamine’s goal out of admiration, not surprise. After the match against the Czech Republic, he also discussed his team’s play, fatigue and the balance between results and players’ health.
GeneralAfter a goal was ruled out that would have brought his team level at 2-2, the Czech Republic coach defended his respect for referees. He also said he was proud of his players’ work.
Comments