Zinedine Zidane Remembers Headbutt on Marco Materazzi and Makes a Strong Confession 20 Years Later
Zinedine Zidane will reunite with Italy in a setting filled with memories. Twenty years after the controversial 2006 World Cup final, the Frenchman spoke again about one of the moments that defined his career.
Zinedine Zidane will face the Azzurri as France manager, but the match will inevitably bring back memories of one of the most well-known episodes of his career.
It has been 20 years since the 2006 World Cup final, played in Berlin. That match ultimately became Zidane’s final game as a footballer and was marked by a scene that remains part of World Cup history.
Now, before facing Italy once again, Zidane had to answer questions about that night. And his response took a turn few could have anticipated.
Zidane Surprises With His Stance on Materazzi
During the press conference ahead of France vs. Italy, Zidane once again addressed his headbutt on Marco Materazzi. The Frenchman confirmed that he has not spoken to the Italian since that day, but his words made it clear that the passage of time has not changed the way he views what happened.
“I’m not proud of what happened, but I have no regrets. It is part of my career,” Zidane said, according to his comments to the media. The manager acknowledged the seriousness of his reaction, while also rejecting the idea that the incident should define his entire career.
The incident took place during extra time of the final, with the score at 1-1. Zidane reacted after a verbal exchange with Materazzi, headbutted the Italian defender in the chest and was shown a red card by Horacio Elizondo. France subsequently lost the title on penalties.
A Final That Changed Zidane’s Career Forever
The incident became the final moment of his professional playing career, after the Frenchman had already announced that he would retire following the World Cup.
Despite the lasting impact of that image, Zidane continues to put it into perspective. His career was also defined by titles, success and historic moments, both with the French national team and during his spells at Juventus and Real Madrid.
Italy Returns at a New Stage in Zidane’s Career
The reunion comes as Zidane begins his tenure as France manager. It will also be his first match in his new role at the Stade de France, a particularly symbolic setting for someone who won the 1998 World Cup there.
France enter the match after securing two 1-0 victories over Turkey and Belgium in the UEFA Nations League. For this game, Zidane will be without Kylian Mbappé, who was left out of the squad due to a knee injury.
