Zinedine Zidane Biography

Zinedine Yazid Zidane was born on June 23, 1972, in Marseille, France. The son of Algerian
immigrants, Zidane learned to play soccer in the streets of La Castellane, a rough section of
Marseille. After starring for local youth clubs, 14-year-old Zidane was discovered at a French
Football Federation training camp by AS Cannes recruiter Jean Varraud, and spent the next
three years honing his skills in Cannes' youth division.

Zidane made his first professional appearance for Cannes at 17, scoring a goal in his debut. He
transferred to Bordeaux in 1992, and in ensuing years the attacking midfielder earned renowned
for his sterling all-around play. Prone to the occasional flash of temper, Zidane otherwise was
the embodiment of control with the ball at his feet, seemingly knowing when to maneuver
through the defense, find a teammate with a pinpoint pass or rocket a shot at the goal. Zidane
transferred to Juventus F.C. in Italy's prestigious Series A League in 1996. The move brought
a marked increase in visibility and expectations, but Zidane proved he was up to the challenge
by steering Juventus to an Italian Super Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, an Intercontinental Cup and
a pair of Series A titles over the next two seasons.

At his peak when France hosted the 1998 World Cup, Zidane spearheaded Les Bleus' march
through the tournament with his crisp passing and dribbling, and then scored twice as France
shut down Brazil in the final, 3-0, to become a national hero. Two years later, Zidane again was
the linchpin of the French team's run to international glory, which culminated with a 2-1 win
over Italy for the European Championship.

In 2001, Zidane signed with Spanish club Real Madrid for a world-record transfer fee of more
than $66 million. The investment paid immediate dividends, as the French import helped Real
Madrid win the coveted UEFA Champions League title in his first year and La Liga the
following season. Zidane had indicated he would retire after the 2006 World Cup in Germany,
and it appeared his career was heading for a storybook finish when France advanced to the final
against Italy. Instead, it ended in shocking fashion when, enraged by opponent Marco
Materazzi's comments to him in extra time, he slammed his head into the Italian player's chest.
Zidane was thrown out of the game, and France subsequently lost on penalty kicks.
In January 2016, Zidane took over as manager of Real Madrid's first team. While some doubted
how he would fare in front of a demanding owner and fan base, the icon soon silenced the
critics with his overwhelming success, becoming the first manager to win two and then three
consecutive Champions League titles. He also led Real Madrid to two UEFA Super Cups, two
FIFA World Club Cups, one Spanish title and one Spanish Super Cup, before announcing he
was stepping down in May 2018. However, Zidane was gone from the post for less than a year,
as he returned to manage Real Madrid in March 2019.
In 2004, Zidane was named best European soccer player of the past 50 years by the UEFA
Golden Jubilee Poll and was included in the FIFA 100, Pelé's list of the 125 greatest living
players. He remains one of a handful of greats to win the FIFA World Player of the Year/Ballon
d'Or award three times.
Appointed a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in March 2001, Zidane annually captains a
team of soccer stars against a side led by fellow retired idol and U.N. Ambassador Ronaldo in
a match for charity. In 2010, he also served as a high-profile ambassador of Qatar's successful
bid to host the 2022 World Cup.
 Zinedine Zidane (a.k.a. Zizou) Biography
(Main Idea & Past Tense Words)

1. Zinedine Zidane was born in Marseille in 1972 to Algerian immigrants and grew up playing
soccer in the streets. At 14, he was discovered by AS Cannes and developed his skills in their
youth system. He made his professional debut at 17, scoring in his first match.

2. Zidane transferred to Bordeaux in 1992, where his exceptional midfield play earned him
widespread recognition. Known for his composure and creativity, he excelled in passing,
dribbling, and scoring. His talent led to a move to Juventus in 1996, where he won multiple
trophies.

3. Zidane became a national hero by leading France to victory in the 1998 World Cup, scoring
twice in the final. Two years later, he guided France to the European Championship title. His
performances cemented his status as one of the world’s best players.

4. In 2001, Zidane joined Real Madrid for a record fee and helped them win the Champions
League in his first season. He continued to excel, winning La Liga before retiring after the 2006
World Cup. His career ended controversially after a headbutt in the final.

5. Zidane transitioned to management in 2016, leading Real Madrid to three straight

Champions League titles. Despite stepping down in 2018, he returned less than a year later. His
managerial success matched his legendary playing career.

6. Zidane was named one of the greatest players in history, winning three FIFA World Player
of the Year awards. He was honored in UEFA’s Golden Jubilee Poll and included in Pelé’s FIFA
100 list. His legacy as a football icon remains unmatched.
7. Beyond football, Zidane serves as a UN Goodwill Ambassador and participates in charity
matches. He also supported Qatar’s successful 2022 World Cup bid. His influence extends
beyond the pitch through philanthropy and global ambassadorial roles.

*The underlined word means it was a verb 2 (past tense) word

What makes me inspired by Zizou Biography:

Zizou was a great example of a Muslim footballer, although he not as religious as other Muslim,
but he still showing his pride as a Muslim. He also known with his elegance, on and outside
the pitch. The headbutt accident in 2006 Final World Cup, shows how much he loves and
respect his family. Last but not least, I chose him because he won the Ballon D’or award for
being the greatest midfielder that ever exist.

Source: https://www.biography.com/athletes/zinedine-zidane