12/21/24
April 25, 2006
'I retire after World Cup - and that's final' - Zidane: Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday he would retire after the World Cup finals in Germany.The 33-year-old, who led France to victory in the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000.
Fantastic player and it's been a pleasure to watch him over the years. He doesn't have a quarter of the impact he used to, and perhaps it's for the best.
posted by walrus at 04:15 PM on April 25, 2006
Simply brilliant player. It'll be sad to see him go, but it is time.
posted by Mr Bismarck at 04:28 PM on April 25, 2006
Wonderful player in his prime. Hopefully will lead 'les blues' to a strong 'coupe' run. France needs a strong performance this year. They are under the radar, but i think they will be strong. They have the best striker in world, Henry and a great defense. I can't wait for the tourney to begin.
posted by sauceysays at 05:21 PM on April 25, 2006
Best name, EVER...
posted by StarFucker at 09:11 PM on April 25, 2006
great ending to a great carrer..despite not winning a championship w/ real madrid!
posted by Fabz316 at 11:24 PM on April 25, 2006
As a fan of Brazil, I certainly hate Zidane (1998 is still too vivid). But even those strong feelings can't deny that he's an excellent player and that soccer will be losing a great player.
posted by PublicUrinal at 07:10 AM on April 26, 2006
Adieu Zizou! His goal in the Champion's League final a few years back may be the best I've ever seen live.
posted by trox at 02:30 PM on April 26, 2006
Oh yeah, that was a stunner. You were there?
posted by Hugh Janus at 03:02 PM on April 26, 2006
Zidane's been playing a bit like Colombia's ex captain Carlos Valderrama - watch carefuly and you'll see he never actually leaves the centre circle, just links passes together through the middle. Still, I'd let him play in our over 35s team when he's old enough. Great goal in the Champions League final, too.
posted by owlhouse at 07:04 AM on April 27, 2006
He's a great player and all, but he's been making noises about retiring since just after the 1998 World Cup, hasn't he?