With Zinedine Zidane preparing to take over as the manager of the French national team, we should reflect on the immense influence the 54-year-old has exerted over football culture in his home country.
Growing up in Marseille before transforming into the symbol of France’s legendary 1998 World Cup triumph, very few athletes have left such a lasting impression on the sport.
According to Djibril Cisse, his one-time international teammate, Zidane’s significance reached well beyond his on-field achievements; the former Liverpool forward points out that the ex-Real Madrid star’s personal path, character, and artistic flair combined to elevate him into a cultural and athletic phenomenon.
Cisse discusses Zidane’s legacy
“He started as a young boy from the rougher areas of Marseille,” Cisse remarked to FourFourTwo when discussing Zidane’s early life, having grown up in the challenging La Castellane district of the city.
“His roots lie in a highly demanding environment—the kind of place where many individuals get lost. Overcoming those beginnings to achieve greatness is incredibly difficult, yet he managed to do exactly that.”
This capacity to ascend from highly modest circumstances to the pinnacle of the world’s most beloved sport is precisely what renders Zidane’s journey so captivating.
In Cisse’s view, this trajectory—coupled with his extraordinary mastery of the ball—is a key reason why Zidane succeeded in leaving such a profound mark on society.
“The absolute greatest players don’t merely secure victories; they actively shape people’s lives,” he added.
“Zidane achieved this not through an outspoken personality like Ali, but through sheer technical perfection, an uncompromising desire to win, and incredible grace.”
This was a result of Zidane’s proactive style on the pitch, choosing to express himself through his creative, offensive brand of play.
“He was never a player content to defend deep and pray for a tie. He was constantly looking for ways to push ahead and secure a victory, meaning your side always had hope when he was on the pitch.
“Beyond that, his breathtaking talent, entertaining flair, and productivity inspired countless fans worldwide to appreciate French football. Sharing the international stage with him was a true privilege.
“Much like Jordan, he stands as the greatest of all time in his discipline to me. A true icon of our nation.”
