Say it isn’t so Zizou!

January 8th, 2010 | by: Sarah |

zidane

The British press is reporting that Zidane may be be offering his expertise and assistance to Algeria this summer in South Africa. Zidane, who is the son of Algerian immigrants to France, has already started working as an adviser to Real Madrid earlier this year as an introduction that may lead to a more prominent coaching role in the future. Working with Algeria this summer may be a part of that plan as well.

In an interview earlier this year, when asked about rumors that he may work with Algeria this summer he reportedly said that “It may already be done.”

I’m taking this report with a grain of salt– after all, it is the English press….

I feel conflicted about the report. On one hand, I’m terrible at sharing and I want France to keep Zidane all to themselves. But, after France, I have a soft spot for the African teams, Algeria in particular. So, if we aren’t going to use him, then I’m glad that they are the ones benefiting from his experience. And I hope he helps them take England down a peg or two– or even better, take them out of the World Cup. When I’m really honest with myself (ugh, the worst!), I recognize that he is not experienced enough to probably help Les Bleus this year. And, who can blame him- after decades of dealing with the FFF, he is probably thrilled to get away from their incompetence.

But, like I said before..I really hope he says it isn’t so…

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Omar

C’mon Sarah, let’s share the genius’s expertise!
In the field of football expertise I believe France’s Domenech is not looking for Zizou’s expertise and therefore, any assistance offered by Zizou will not be to the detriment of France. But maybe before arguing about sharing the genius we should have more information about he really meant? What could he offer the Algerian players apart from his welcomed moral support?
Sarah

Omar: Yes, I know I should learn to share…the best I can do is say that if he has to help someone else then I’m glad it is Algeria.

I don’t know what Zidane could give them– I just know I would prefer him to give to France. But, again, you are probably that right that even if he wanted to help France, Raymond probably wouldn’t let him
Danny

Considering Zizou’s intense dislike of Domenech in his playing days, I can’t imagine why Zizou would even consider coaching along side him.

Also, I haven’t heard anyone complaining about the many French managers of African sides (Giresse, Le Guen, etc.). Zidane acting as a mere advisor should be of no concern.

I certainly disagree with your statement that he couldn’t help Les Bleus this year. Do you honestly believe if Zizou were installed as manager he wouldn’t be better than Domenech? That is a bar so low, even the most inexperienced can leap it.
Aditya

Being of Algerian origin I am sure he has a soft corner for Algeria. I am happy if he is doing something to help them. He has done his bit for France. Time for others to take up responsibility.
Doumé

If you remember the trip he took in Algeria around 2006, it was very obvious that it’s so meaningful for him, with family members living there still.
I think this is great; it might even make things smoother (remember France/Algeria friendly in 01 where he was just booed by the Algerian public as some sort of traitor). Probably he can contribute a lot to the Algerian team at this point, even for confidence.
Sarah, I understand what you feel. But I have no problem with it. I *would* if he was helping Spain or England
Michel-Olivier

“I am: first, a Kabyle from La Castellane, then an Algerian from Marseille, and then a Frenchman.”(zz)
Jean-François

I’m glad he is taking an initiative, and not watching the WC on tv, seeing him on television always makes me happy. I really wish I could see him play again, let’s hope that he is a good coach. You never know, in 20 years he could very well be our coach. I think Zidane will be proud to be part of Algeria’s first world cup since the 80’s.
jeanpierre

it would have been nice if he was one of the peeps babysitting domenech
Jean-François

Really wish that I didn’t have to wait all the way until March to see les bleus in action. They need to schedule a winter friendly. Is it even possible too this short notice? Also I have a question, when does a coach have to finalize his list of players for the World Cup?

Vieira’s first game tomorrow, I really hope he impresses!
http://thebeantownfrog.blogspot.com/ GFC

I think it is great that Zizou is helping out the Algerian side…I think that if he tried to help out France, Domenech would just ignore him anyways. Maybe when Les Bleus get a real manager…