When one of the greatest midfielders of all time singles you out as the best in the world, it speaks volumes. That’s exactly what happened when Zinedine Zidane publicly declared his admiration for Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard.
Two of football’s most iconic midfielders, Zidane and Gerrard defined an era with their leadership, technique and big game performances and while fans often debate who belongs in the pantheon alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Zidane was clear in his view as far back as 2009 naming Liverpool former captain.
“Is he the best in the world? He might not get the attention of Messi and Ronaldo but, yes, I think he just might be,” Zidane said at the time.He has great passing ability, can tackle and score goals, but most importantly he gives players around him confidence and belief. You can’t learn that. Players like that are just born with that presence.”
Gerrard joined Liverpool as a nine-year-old, rising through the youth academy into the senior team before leading the Reds as club captain to some of their most historic nights. He on to make 710 appearances, placing him third on the Reds all-time list, Gerrard lifted two FA Cups, one League Cup, a UEFA Cup and a Champions League before leaving the club for LA Galaxy in 2015. The former England international was known for big moments and special goals,
That glowing endorsement in 2009 came shortly after Real Madrid had been dismantled 4–0 at Anfield in the Champions League, with Gerrard at the heart of Liverpool’s demolition job. Los Blancos were dumped out 5–0 on aggregate, and Zidane, watching his old club humbled, couldn’t help but admire the player who had tormented them.
Of course, Zidane’s respect for Gerrard had begun long before that tie. In fact, in the summer of 2004, the French maestro personally urged Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez to sign the Liverpool captain. A deal never materialised, much to Zidane’s disappointment and to the relief of Liverpool fans everywhere.
Even then he had an impressive trophy haul, with an FA Cup, two League Cups and a UEFA Cup to his name. But his greatest moments were still to come.
The following year brought Istanbul and the Champions League final that defined Gerrard’s legacy. His stunning header sparked an extraordinary comeback from 3–0 down against AC Milan, and his relentless drive inspired one of the most famous victories in football history.
For Zidane a World Cup, Euro, Champions League, La Liga and Serie A winner to hold Gerrard in such esteem says everything about the respect he commanded. It was a rare moment when even in an age dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, a player from outside Spain’s was singled out as the best.
When Rio Ferdinand once teased Gerrard about the quote, asking who had said it, Gerrard laughed: “Zidane. I know because I’ve read it a million times. I’m very flattered and humbled for him to say that.
High praise indeed from one genius to another and a reminder of Gerrard’s unique impact on his team and the game itself.
