Zinedine Zidane Expresses Regret For Not Playing Alongside Lionel Messi

Zinedine Zidane, the iconic figure from Real Madrid and France, expressed to Lionel Messi his desire to have shared the field with the Barcelona legend at some point in their illustrious careers.

Despite facing off only once in 2005, during a La Liga match where Messi contributed to Barcelona’s 3-0 victory over Madrid, Zidane acknowledged the missed opportunity to play alongside the Argentine sensation. In a conversation facilitated by Adidas, Zidane regretfully mentioned, “It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t be teammates. Today is significant for me as I can convey my admiration. I believe he possesses pure magic.”

Messi reciprocated the praise, expressing his long-standing admiration for Zidane, even though the two were often on opposing sides. Reflecting on their chat, Messi noted, “I have always admired him and liked him a lot. I followed him closely during his time in Madrid. He also made me suffer because I was from Barcelona.”

The conversation between the two football legends delved into various topics, including the exhilaration of scoring in a World Cup final for their respective nations. They also discussed their mutual respect for the late Diego Maradona and lamented the scarcity of number tens in today’s football landscape.

Looking ahead, Messi is set to feature for Inter Miami in the Noche d’Or friendly against New York City, celebrating his eighth Ballon d’Or triumph.