Whereas believing 1998 was not his greatest 12 months as a footballer, Zinedine Zidane has conceded he needed to be recognised as the very best participant on the earth.
Zidane was a talismanic determine on French soil as Les Bleus claimed their first World Cup, scoring two targets within the remaining towards Brazil and propelling him to the Ballon d’Or.
Regardless of occurring to scale additional heights in soccer at each membership and worldwide stage, it remained the one 12 months he ever received the distinguished particular person award.
Talking to L’Equipe to mark his fiftieth birthday, Zidane revealed it is without doubt one of the few trophies he stored from an distinctive taking part in profession, whereas admitting he significantly needed the standing within the sport that accompanied it.
“As a result of I give every thing, I’m able to provide every thing,” he stated. “I’ve nearly nothing at residence from my profession. Two or three objects. I’m not in any respect conservative or materialistic. Once I wish to see souvenirs, I’m going to Marseille [where his parents live]. I don’t stay with it.
“I used to be a bit overconfident the weeks earlier than the vote. I acquired a bit fired up in a couple of interviews. I’ve by no means been one to say, ‘I deserve this or that,’ however with this Ballon d’Or, in 1998, I advised myself a bit bit. It wasn’t actually me however I actually needed to have it.
“I used to be the very best participant on the earth. It doesn’t occur typically, and to me solely as soon as. There could also be preferences within the votes however when you could have it, you could have it. You’re the greatest participant on the earth at the moment, and it’s lovely.”
Un très joyeux anniversaire à 2 grands Bleus !