Zinédine Zidane hailed by France fans on rapturous Stade de France return | OneFootball

France’s 1-1 Nations League draw with Italy at the Stade de France was eclipsed by the reception for Zinédine Zidane on his return.

According to L'Équipe, many fans came chiefly to glimpse him in person, with Zidane shirts and portraits widespread on the concourses and in the stands.

The loudest moment came before kick-off when, as the team announcements ended, his face filled the giant screens and the stadium erupted. Nearby, the Irrésistibles Français unfurled a banner reading “Bienvenue chez toi”.

The main France supporters’ group had prepared the salute to mark his return, aiming to show he remains welcome in what they regard as his home.

In terms of atmosphere, that pre-match ovation outshone anything on the pitch.

Source: L'Équipe

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”