Marco Materazzi willing to have Zinedine Zidane 'conversation' for first time since infamous 2006 World Cup final headbutt with Italy legend 'no longer looking for an apology'

The World Cup-winning former Italy defender claims he has not spoken to Zidane since the infamous headbutt incident in the 2006 World Cup final, however, he is now willing to have a conversation with the France legend. Materazzri also insisted that he won't demand an apology from the ex-Real Madrid midfielder and manager.

Zidane, who is considered an all-time great, saw his illustrious career ending on a tragic note in the 2006 World Cup final after he was sent off for headbutting Italy's Materazzi on the field. Italy eventually went on to win the clash on penalties as they clinched their fourth World Cup title, while the Frenchman hung up his boots after the game in Berlin.

Speaking to Lucky Block, the Italian said: "I haven’t spoken to Zinedine Zidane since that day, I had never spoken to him before and have not spoken to him after. We don’t have a relationship. He is a legend of the game and I have a lot of respect for him as a player and a manager, winning three Champions Leagues in a row.

"I’m no longer looking for an apology but would happily have a conversation with him now that so many years have passed. There would be no problem."

The 52-year-old embraced football management after hanging up his boots and won three successive Champions League titles as Real Madrid boss. He is currently not in charge of any club but briefly after the 2022 World Cup, he was linked with the France national team job. However, the France Football Federation decided to retain Didier Deschamp's services until 2026.