'Perfection' - Zinedine Zidane says he's rewatched Real Madrid's Champions League final 'six times' as legendary coach hails his team's display as the pinnacle of football

Zidane, who won three consecutive Champions League titles with Madrid as manager, singled out the 2016-17 final against Juventus as his standout moment. Los Blancos dominated the clash, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Casemiro and Marco Asensio all scoring as Madrid ran out 4-1 victors. The Frenchman emphasised the brilliance of his team’s second-half display, repeatedly describing it as the ultimate example of football excellence.

The 1998 World Cup winner, appearing at the Festival Dello Sport organized by La Gazzetta Dello Sport, reflected on his most memorable moments in football. He singled out Madrid’s 2017 Champions League final against Juventus as the pinnacle of his managerial career.

"The best moment of my career after the World Cup? Our second Champions League against Juventus. The way we played that second half… it was truly spectacular. I've watched it four, five, six times… and I've always said: 'This is football.' Perfection."

Since stepping away from Madrid following his second stint in 2021, Zidane has remained a highly sought-after figure in football. Reports link him to Chelsea, Manchester United and the Saudi Pro League, with speculation also mounting about the French national team job. His remarkable track record and calm leadership style continue to make him a sought-after figure in global football.

The 53-year-old recently claimed his ultimate dream is to manage the French national team: "I will definitely return to coaching. Me at Juventus? I don't know why it didn't happen. I always have him in my heart because he gave me so much. In the future, I don't know, one of my goals is to coach the French national team. We'll see."

Zidane has confirmed he plans to return to coaching, with one of his long-term ambitions being to manage France, but top European clubs will be holding onto some hope that they can tempt the 1998 Ballon d’Or winner.