‘Zizou is still like a big brother to me’ – Franck Ribéry on relationship with Zinedine Zidane | OneFootball

Back in 2022, Franck Ribéry put an end to his 18-year career in professional football as a player at Italian club Salernitana. Recently, the former France international spoke in a lengthy interview with L’Équipe about his coaching ambitions, and taking inspiration from Les Bleus legend Zinedine Zidane.“He’s a clear blueprint to follow in terms of my development as a coach. He earned his qualifications gradually, without rushing. He first took on young players, then became assistant coach and he’s now an outstanding coach in his own right,” said Ribéry, who was teammates with Zidane at the 2006 World Cup in Germany. The pair have remained close ever since. “It’s always a thrill to be with Zizou. He’s like a big brother, a really good vibe. We saw each other again last summer at a tournament in Marseille, at his place, and it feels like only yesterday.” In September, Ribéry completed his UEFA coaching badges in Italy at the age of 41. He completed his UEFA A licence, the second highest qualification for a a coach in European football. GFFN | George Boxall