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# Zinedine Zidane's Midfield Rating at Al Ittihad: A Look into the French Master's Impact on Spanish Playmaking
In the world of football, few players have had as significant an impact on their teams' playstyles as Zinedine Zidane has throughout his illustrious career. His ability to transform teams with his tactical vision and leadership skills has made him one of the most respected tacticians in European football history. One club that has particularly benefited from Zidane's influence is Al Ittihad, where he served as the head coach for two seasons.
## The Role of Zidane in Al Ittihad's Playmaking
During his tenure at Al Ittihad, Zidane implemented a tactical system that emphasized quick passing, possession-based play, and high intensity pressing. This approach was designed to counteract the attacking style of opponents and create more chances for his team to score goals. Under Zidane's guidance, Al Ittihad developed a strong midfield presence that allowed them to dominate matches and secure victories.
### Key Attributes of Zidane's Midfield Style
1. **Passing Efficiency**: Zidane's midfielders were renowned for their exceptional passing accuracy and creativity. They would often find themselves playing long balls or creating opportunities through intricate passing patterns.
2. **Tactical Vision**: He was known for his ability to read the game and make tactical adjustments on the fly. This allowed him to maintain control of the midfield and dictate the tempo of the match.
3. **Leadership**: As the coach, Zidane was a charismatic leader who instilled confidence in his players. He believed in teamwork and encouraged players to work together towards a common goal.
4. **Competition**: Zidane's midfielders were always competitive and willing to take risks. This contributed to a dynamic and exciting atmosphere in the stadium.
## Zidane's Impact on Spanish Playmaking
Al Ittihad's success under Zidane highlighted the potential of Spanish players to excel in a tactical system that emphasizes possession-based play. The combination of Zidane's tactical expertise and Spanish talent proved to be a powerful formula for success. Many of the midfielders Zidane worked with at Al Ittihad went on to become some of the best in Spain and Europe.
### Examples of Successful Players
- **Sergio Ramos**: Known for his aerial prowess and defensive solidity, Ramos was instrumental in maintaining Al Ittihad's defensive structure while also contributing to their offensive efforts.
- **Javier Mascherano**: A versatile midfielder who could play both inside and outside the box, Mascherano helped Al Ittihad transition between attack and defense effectively.
- **Iker Casillas**: While not a traditional midfielder, Casillas's experience in central defense and his calm demeanor were crucial in maintaining stability in the midfield.
## Conclusion
Zinedine Zidane's midfield rating at Al Ittihad stands out as a testament to his profound impact on Spanish playmaking. By implementing a tactical system that emphasized possession, creativity, and leadership, he transformed Al Ittihad into a formidable force in the league. The success of clubs like Al Ittihad under Zidane serves as a reminder of the power of combining strategic vision with player skill to achieve excellence in football.