In the build-up to France’s meeting with Belgium, Zinedine Zidane used his platform to defend Cristiano Ronaldo, calling for greater respect for the Portugal forward amid the debate surrounding his international future.
Ronaldo’s decision to step away from the Portugal national team has prompted fresh discussion, including scrutiny of his relationship with Jorge Jesus, Portugal’s coach. Zidane, who worked closely with the forward at Real Madrid, focused instead on the scale of Ronaldo’s career and his contribution to the teams they shared.
Quick facts
- Zidane spoke before France’s match against Belgium.
- He backed Cristiano Ronaldo amid discussion over the forward’s Portugal situation and Jorge Jesus.
- Zidane coached Ronaldo during two spells in charge of Real Madrid.
- Real Madrid won three consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018 with the pair together.
- Zidane collected 11 trophies across his two periods as Madrid coach.
“His outstanding career has to be recognised,” Zidane said. “I was fortunate to coach him and he helped me win many titles. Chapeau, Cristiano. I have always had great respect for those with whom I have spent time.”
The Frenchman returned to the same theme when reflecting on the years at Valdebebas, where Ronaldo was central to one of Europe’s most decorated modern sides. Zidane said the Portuguese striker had brought him “incredible” achievements and that he could only take his hat off to him.
Their association covered Zidane’s two spells on the Real Madrid bench, a period in which the club won league titles, the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup. The Copa del Rey also arrived during Ronaldo’s time in Madrid.
The defining stretch came between 2016 and 2018, when Madrid lifted the Champions League in three successive seasons. Ronaldo was among the decisive figures in that run, while Zidane fashioned a side capable of contending for the game’s major prizes year after year.
Zidane’s remarks now add the voice of a former coach to the conversation around Ronaldo’s Portugal future. Their Madrid years remain a prominent part of both men’s records: a coach with 11 trophies across his two tenures, and a forward whose influence shaped a landmark era for the Spanish club.
