Tensions between Deschamps and Zidane date back to 1998

Karim Djaziri, a former agent of Karim Benzema, has revealed that the tensions between Didier Deschamps and Zinedine Zidane began during the 1998 World Cup. Djaziri claims that while the two have mutual respect, they are not close friends, and their rivalry is rooted in events from that tournament.

Zidane’s red card in 1998 sparked criticism

During the 1998 World Cup, Zidane was sent off in a group stage match against Saudi Arabia after stamping on the captain, Fuad Amin. Deschamps, who was the team captain at the time, was highly critical of Zidane’s actions, calling them “unforgivable” and detrimental to the team’s performance in the rest of the tournament.

Deschamps publicly criticized Zidane after the match

In an interview with the Riolu Club show on RMC, Djaziri recounted that Deschamps publicly denounced Zidane after the match, even suggesting he was foolish to consider punching Amin while already shown a red card. Djaziri emphasized that such criticism at a post-match press conference is unprofessional, especially among top athletes.

Deschamps later apologized to Zidane

According to Djaziri, Deschamps later expressed regret for his harsh words. After Zidane returned to the Clairefontaine training center, Deschamps reportedly visited him to apologize, saying, “Zizou, I'm sorry, I did a stupid thing, I do stupid things too, I shouldn't have done it.” Despite this apology, the rift between the two football legends apparently remained.