Roma Coach Luciano Spalletti believes Zinedine Zidane will succeed at Real Madrid in part because ‘he has everyone’s respect.’
Madrid meet the Italians on Wednesday as the Champions League returns and Spalletti, appointed to replace Rudi Garcia as the competition took a break, has been interviewed by AS.
“I remember Zidane well at Juventus. He was a fantastic player and a leader,” he said of his opposing trainer.
“When you’re like this, with this character, becoming a Coach is easier. He has the respect of everyone and that helps on the impact of his new role. He’s a great.
“Personality is enough and putting the players in the right places to make the most of their quality. You earn their respect.”
Spalletti added that there are a number of Madrid players he admires, naming Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, but he is wary of ‘some kid out there called Cristiano.’
“They’re all very good, everyone. But what Cristiano Ronaldo has done is impossible,” he explained.
“To have that quality is very difficult, that speed, strength. I know him well. With Roma I played against him six times with Manchester United.
“You have to have a player with the same speed and personality, you can’t be afraid to confront him.”
