As a striker, I know the importance of a strong midfield. A midfield maestro can dictate the pace of the game, create scoring opportunities, and control the flow of possession. And when it comes to midfield legends, few names resonate as powerfully as Zinedine Zidane.
While Zidane’s prowess as a player is undisputed, his managerial career, particularly at Real Madrid, showcased his keen eye for talent and his ability to build formidable squads. Zidane’s transfer activity during his two stints as Real Madrid manager (2016-2018 and 2019-2021) was marked by strategic signings that bolstered the team’s midfield and contributed to their unprecedented Champions League three-peat.
Unveiling Zidane’s Midfield Masterpieces: A Look at Key Signings
During his managerial tenure, Zidane orchestrated a series of impactful signings, many of whom played pivotal roles in Real Madrid’s midfield dominance. Let’s delve into some of his most notable acquisitions:
Bringing in the Brazilian Prodigy: Casemiro
Casemiro in Real Madrid Jersey
One of Zidane’s early moves was to recall Casemiro from a loan spell at Porto. Recognizing the Brazilian’s defensive solidity and tactical discipline, Zidane seamlessly integrated him into the starting lineup. Casemiro quickly established himself as a midfield lynchpin, providing defensive cover that allowed the likes of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos to flourish further up the pitch.
Reinforcing the Creative Core: The Arrival of Dani Ceballos
Dani Ceballos celebrates a goal for Real Madrid
In 2017, Zidane secured the services of the highly-rated Dani Ceballos from Real Betis. Ceballos, known for his exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and passing range, added another layer of creativity and technical prowess to Real Madrid’s midfield. While Ceballos’ time at Madrid saw him used primarily as a squad player, his signing underscored Zidane’s commitment to nurturing young talent and maintaining squad depth.
The Strategic Acquisition: Theo Hernandez
Theo Hernandez in action for Real Madrid
While not strictly a midfielder, Theo Hernandez’s arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2017 deserves mention. Zidane identified Hernandez’s potential as a dynamic and attack-minded left-back, a role that could influence Real Madrid’s midfield dynamics. Hernandez’s pace and willingness to overlap provided an additional attacking outlet, creating space for the midfielders to operate.
Beyond the Signings: Zidane’s Impact on Player Development
While Zidane’s signings undoubtedly strengthened Real Madrid, his ability to extract the best from existing players was equally impressive. Under his guidance, players like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos reached new heights, forming one of the most formidable midfield partnerships in modern football history.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Triumph and Transformation
Zinedine Zidane’s managerial reign at Real Madrid was defined by an astute understanding of the game and a knack for identifying and nurturing talent. His midfield signings, coupled with his tactical acumen, played a crucial role in the club’s unprecedented success. Zidane’s legacy at Real Madrid extends beyond the trophies won; he leaves behind a blueprint for building winning teams through a balanced combination of established stars and promising young talents.