Official: Zidane to Retire After World Cup
(Goal.com) - One of the true masters of the game, Zinedine Zidane, confirmed today that he will retire after the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
"Today I am making the decision to leave it all behind," Zidane said at a press conference today.
The Real Madrid star, who turns 34 during the World Cup, said he wanted to make his intentions known now so that that Real Madrid could begin to plan for next season. "I wanted to give ample notice so that Real Madrid has time to look for my replacement, other players, if that's what they want," he said. "That is why I'm announcing it now and not after the World Cup. It's the least I can give Real Madrid. This Club has given me a lot and deserves this courtesy."
The man, whose magnificent volley against Bayer Leverkusen in the finals of the 2002 Champions League allowed Real Madrid to win their ninth such title, admitted has has felt the effects of age.
"In these last two years I haven't felt at ease, I haven't played the way I wanted," he said. "I'm not 25 anymore. Each day it's more difficult, I have more pains. I don't want to be here just for the sake of being here. I've always done everything to win and I'm not doing that lately."
Zidane scored two goals in leading France to the World Cup title in 1998. An injury limited Zidane's appearances at the 2002 World Cup, when France failed to get out of the group stage.
"To finish my career after the World Cup is something very special," said the three-time FIFA World Player of the Year. "I'm going to be highly motivated, I just hope I don't have any physical problems."
Real Madrid's final home match this season comes against Villarreal on May 7.
Zinedine Zidane Factfile:
Born: June 23, 1972 in Marseille, France
Nickname: Zizou
Clubs: AS Cannes (1988-92), Girondins Bordeaux (1992-96), Juventus (1996-2001), Real Madrid (2001-2006)
Comments
That's disappointing, although not surprising news. He's an amazing player. I'm glad to see him leaving the game while he's still performing relatively well. It's not any fun for anyone watching players' skills deteriorate.
How many hours until a rumor starts that he's coming to MLS?
Posted by: The Unfortunate Welsh Fan | April 26, 2006 12:25 PM
Welsh, I was thinking the same thing about the MLS. I'd be happy if Zizou can break out a few more highlight moments during the WC.
Posted by: yellowback | April 26, 2006 02:51 PM
ZIDANE IF U READ TIS PLZ PLZ PLZ DNT RETIRE. YOUR ARE THE GREATEST FOOTBALLER EVER. I DREAM TO BE JUST LIKE YOU.
Posted by: ZIDANE DONT RETIRE | July 2, 2006 05:28 AM
I AM A BIG ZIZOU FAN. HIS USE OF PLAY IS SOMETHING OF PURE FINESSE, I AM INTERESTED TO KNOW WHERE ZIDANE'S FUTURE IS. I WOULD LOVE TO SEE HIM SIGN FOR LIVERPOOL HIM AND GERARD IN MIDFIELD FORGET ABOUT IT
TANX
PAUL MORLEY
Posted by: paul morley | July 10, 2006 07:03 AM
Very true! Makes a chagne to see someone spell it out like that. :)
Posted by: Honney | April 29, 2011 10:58 AM