‘No regrets’ over Materazzi headbutt – Zidane

Zinedine Zidane has opened up about his infamous clash with Marco Materazzi during the 2006 World Cup final, insisting he has no regrets over the incident.

Zidane addressed the moment ahead of France’s UEFA Nations League clash with Italy on Friday, which will be his first home match as France manager at the Stade de France.

The France legend was sent off in extra time of the 2006 World Cup final after headbutting Materazzi in the chest. Italy went on to win the final on penalties.

Asked about the incident at his pre-match press conference, Zidane said he was not proud of his actions but did not regret them.

“I haven’t spoken to Materazzi since that day. I’m not proud of what I did, I’ve always said that, but at the same time I have no regrets. It is part of my career.

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“Fortunately, that is not all that I did in my career. There are positive and enjoyable moments, and I prefer to remember those. You can’t just have a career of all great moments.”

Friday’s match marks Zidane’s first home game since succeeding Didier Deschamps as France manager. He has led France to 1-0 victories over Türkiye and Belgium in his opening two Nations League matches.

Zidane said he was excited about returning to the Stade de France, where he expects a capacity crowd for the meeting with Italy.

France will be without captain Kylian Mbappe, who withdrew from the squad with a knee injury, but Zidane said he has a squad of 23 players to choose from.