Zidane: Ronaldo helped me win many trophies
After the France–Italy match Zidane praised Cristiano Ronaldo’s career and said the forward helped him win multiple trophies.
Zinedine Zidane, the coach of the France national team, praised Cristiano Ronaldo at a post-match press conference after France's game against Italy, saying the Portuguese star played a major role in his trophy haul.
Zidane honors former Real Madrid teammate
Asked about Ronaldo and his current status with the Portugal national team, Zidane replied: "We really must give him recognition for his great career. I was lucky he was with me. He helped me win many trophies. Hats off to Cristiano".
Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo were teammates at Real Madrid roughly ten years ago. During that period the club dominated domestically and in Europe, claiming three Champions League trophies.
The coach framed his comments as recognition of Ronaldo's long career and influence on successful teams they shared, rather than as a direct assessment of Portugal's present selection choices.
His remarks came during the mixed-zone media session immediately following the France–Italy fixture; reporters had asked whether Ronaldo's situation with Portugal was affecting broader perceptions of the forward across European football.
Photo: press material from the event
