Zidane Names Ronaldo, Modric, Benzema, Kroos as Players Who Motivated Him at Real Madrid

Zidane Names Ronaldo, Modric, Benzema, Kroos as Players Who Motivated Him at Real Madrid

Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has revealed the four players who inspired and motivated him during his time on the bench at the Santiago Bernabéu.

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The French tactician named Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Karim Benzema, and Toni Kroos as the standout stars whose professionalism and exceptional talent pushed him as a coach.

Zidane enjoyed two successful spells at Real Madrid — from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2019 to 2021 — winning an impressive 11 trophies during that period, including multiple domestic and European titles.

Speaking in an interview with L’Equipe, Zidane described the quartet as players of extraordinary quality who consistently operated at the highest level.

“When I was a coach at Real Madrid, I didn’t say anything. I watched Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Cristiano Ronaldo or Karim Benzema train,” Zidane said.

“There was nothing to say except watch; they were all so talented and professional. They never lost possession.

“That is what motivated me as a coach too — to have that very, very high level of talent.”

Zidane’s remarks once again highlight the core group of players who defined one of the most dominant eras in Real Madrid’s history under his leadership.

Zidane Names Ronaldo, Modric, Benzema, Kroos as Players Who Motivated Him at Real Madrid