Zinedine Zidane’s Outrage Over Steve McManaman’s England Squad Exclusion
Football legend Zinedine Zidane was reportedly “stunned” and vocal in his criticism after noticing a prominent player, Steve McManaman, was surprisingly omitted from the England national team squad. The French icon, a Ballon d’Or recipient in 1998, even went as far as to suggest that the Three Lions would “regret” overlooking such a talented individual.
Zidane, known for his eloquent style both on and off the pitch, has consistently voiced his admiration for English football and its key players. His time playing alongside David Beckham at Real Madrid provided him with firsthand experience of the English talent pool.
Over the years, Zidane has publicly praised other distinguished English midfielders such as Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, and Paul Scholes. However, it was the perceived snub of another former Real Madrid teammate that truly triggered his strong reaction. That teammate was Steve McManaman.
Steve McManaman, a dynamic midfielder, enjoyed a successful period at Real Madrid where he and Zidane shared the pitch and won two prestigious Champions League titles together. McManaman holds the distinction of being the first English player to achieve this milestone twice, even scoring in one of those Champions League final victories against Valencia.
His move to Real Madrid in 1999 from Liverpool was a landmark free transfer, and during this period, he remained a consistent selection for the England national setup.
Despite this, McManaman’s last appearance for England was in 2001. Zidane expressed his disbelief regarding McManaman’s absence from the 2002 England squad. He emphasized the high caliber of play he witnessed from McManaman on a regular basis at Real Madrid, questioning the decision to leave him out of the national team.
In 2002, Zidane stated, “I was surprised when McManaman was left out of the last England squad. I couldn’t believe they would ignore a player of his quality,” as reported by Sky Sports. This comment highlighted his genuine shock at the England manager’s decision.
At the time, there was speculation that McManaman might get a chance due to an injury to David Beckham. However, Zidane firmly believed McManaman’s value extended far beyond being a mere replacement.
“But McManaman is far better than just being a replacement for Beckham. McManaman should be in the starting line-up anyway,” Zidane asserted, underlining his conviction in McManaman’s starting eleven quality.
Zidane continued, suggesting the England manager, then Sven-Goran Eriksson, should seize the opportunity. “Picking him now would be a very smart move for Eriksson because McManaman is in the mood to start proving people wrong. If Eriksson gave him the chance he deserves, he could prove to all the people and to Eriksson he should have been there all along.”
He further elaborated on McManaman’s consistent performance levels. “I don’t think he has really ever had a proper chance under Eriksson but he has proved over the years, for Liverpool, England and Real Madrid, that he is a leading player.”
Zidane concluded with a strong warning. “If England do not pick him, it would be a terrible waste, both for the side and for McManaman. If they don’t take him to the World Cup, they’ll regret it.” His words reflected a strong sense of conviction about McManaman’s potential contribution to the England team and the potential cost of his absence.
Zinedine Zidane raved about Real Madrid teammate Steve McManaman. Image: Getty
McManaman’s Omission from World Cup Squad and His Reaction
Despite this strong endorsement from Zidane, and Zidane’s public support for McManaman to be included in the squad managed by Sven-Goran Eriksson, McManaman was ultimately not selected for the major tournament. This occurred even after he had recently featured as a substitute in a World Cup qualifying match against Greece.
McManaman received confirmation of his omission via a phone message from Eriksson. He shared his reaction to BBC 5 Live, stating, “A lot of the reasons that are bandied about are ridiculous.” He expressed confusion over the decision, especially given his recent involvement with the national team during the qualifying stages.
He further commented on the situation, “I was involved in the last qualifying game against Greece and everyone was happy. People make their own assumptions but it’s very confusing.” This indicated his bewilderment and lack of clear explanation regarding his exclusion.
Interestingly, McManaman also revealed a degree of resignation to his fate, adding, “When it was announced I wasn’t picked I wasn’t cross as I was half expecting it.” This suggests he may have sensed that his place in the squad was not secure, despite his performances and Zidane’s public backing.
Throughout his England career, Steve McManaman earned 37 caps for his country, scoring 3 goals. While his international career might be viewed by some as unfulfilled, he remains a celebrated figure in English football, admired for his club achievements and the high praise he received from figures like Zinedine Zidane.
What are your thoughts on Steve McManaman’s England career? Did he deserve more opportunities with the national team? Share your opinions in the comments below!