New France head coach Zinedine Zidane has said he has no regrets over his infamous headbutt on Italy defender Marco Materazzi during the 2006 World Cup final, as he prepares for his first home match in charge of Les Bleus.
France will host Italy in the UEFA Nations League on Friday at the Stade de France, bringing Zidane face-to-face with a nation that remains closely linked to one of the most controversial moments of his illustrious playing career.
The incident occurred during the 2006 World Cup final in Berlin, when Zidane headbutted Materazzi in the chest after an exchange between the two players. Zidane was sent off in extra time, with Italy eventually winning the final on penalties.
Nearly two decades later, the former Real Madrid manager maintains that he does not regret what happened.
Zidane, 54, took over as France coach in late July, succeeding Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after 14 years in charge following the World Cup in North America.
The legendary former France midfielder has made a perfect start to his managerial tenure, winning each of his first two matches.
His first game came away against Turkey, where France secured a narrow 1-0 victory before recording another 1-0 win against Belgium.
Friday’s meeting with Italy will therefore provide Zidane with his first opportunity to lead France in front of the home supporters at the Stade de France.
The match also adds another chapter to his long history with Italian football. Zidane spent five seasons in Serie A with Juventus before moving to Real Madrid in 2001.
While the focus will be on Zidane’s new era with France, memories of the 2006 final are certain to resurface as the two European heavyweights meet again.
For Zidane, however, the attention is now firmly on his new responsibility as France coach and continuing the strong start to his tenure.
