Zidane's glittering career came to an ignominious end in Germany last year when he was sent off for headbutting the Italy defender in the chest in the closing stages of the World Cup final, which France went on to lose on penalties.

Materazzi later admitted to goading the three-time World Player of the Year into the assault, but Zidane, while grateful that the French public has forgiven him for his actions, is desperate to forget his nemesis.

In an interview with German newspaper Bild, Zidane said: "What I did was inexcusable.

"It was disappointing and not right and the referee had to do what he did.

"The fact France and the fans have forgiven me is an honour.

"They have probably retained memories of my whole career, and not only this momentary mistake. This name (Materazzi) is taboo - it is broken."

Meanwhile, the 35-year-old former Real Madrid star, who retired after the World Cup, revealed that he has not ruled out a return to football in a coaching capacity.

"That is an option one day," he continued. "Football is what I can do best after all."

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