Would time have eased tensions? Marco Materazzi, famous for receiving the famous headbutt from Zinédine Zidane during the 2006 World Cup final, has spoken out about his desire to bury the hatchet. In an interview with Lucky Block, the former Italian defender said: “I’m not trying to apologize anymore, but I would be happy to have a conversation with him now that so many years have passed. There would be no problem.”
Since this significant event, Zidane and Materazzi have never spoken to each other. However, Materazzi affirms his admiration for the former captain of the Blues: “He’s a football legend. I have a lot of respect for him as a player and as a coach, with his three Champions Leagues won.”
An improbable response from Zidane?
Despite this outstretched hand, a favorable response from Zidane seems unlikely. Christophe Dugarry, former teammate of “Zizou”, expressed categorical skepticism:
“Zizou doesn’t give a damn about Materazzi. He can wait his whole life, Zizou is not going to comment on that.” For Dugarry, Materazzi uses this story to stay in the light. It remains to be seen whether Zidane, known for his discretion, will decide to respond to this symbolic invitation.
