Zidane needs only one word to describe Messi

Zidane and Messi were brought together by their sponsor Adidas for a video on their YouTube channel. In it, the Frenchman was asked how he would describe Messi. 'I only need one word for that: magic. Leo and I don't talk often, so today is an important day for me because I can finally tell him that I admire him.'

As coach of Real Madrid, Zidane has come across the diminutive Argentine several times. 'Everyone who loves football also loves Messi. It's magic, pure magic. Before he received the ball, he already knew exactly what needed to happen. When I saw you on the field, I almost knew what you were going to do. It was like a kind of connection. It's a pity we never got to play together.'

Conversely, Messi also has great respect for Zidane's career. 'We've clashed with each other at times, you as a coach and I as a player. But I have always had respect and admiration for everything you have done and are still doing. He is one of the greatest players in history. I'm not saying this just because he's here now, but I've said it before.'