LIVE
...

Follow us on

Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

News

Zinedine Zidane could prove to be deciding factor for Matteo Guendouzi as Real Madrid track Arsenal man

Lee Connor
Lee Connor

Arsenal could face a fight to keep hold of Matteo Guendouzi this summer after claimed that both Barcelona and Real Madrid were interested in the midfielder. 

Guendouzi has gradually developed himself into being one of the key players for the Gunners in recent times. His energetic displays and ability to get around the pitch have made him integral to Mikel Arteta’s plans.

(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

However, the La Liga duo remain giants in the game. It is, then, hard to see Guendouzi not being interested in a move to either club.

But the Frenchman could well be tempted to pick Madrid over Barca if push comes to shove. And there’s a good reason as to why he might be swayed by Los Blancos if a bidding war commences.

That reason is Zinedine Zidane. The former World Cup winner is in his second spell with Madrid as the boss, with a 2-0 win last night keeping them firmly on track to win La Liga.

Guendouzi loves Zidane, cites him as best ever French player

Most French players will love Zidane. And with good reason, too. The big midfielder was instrumental for France as they won both the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000.

Zidane is lauded in France and is seemingly loved by Arsenal star Matteo Guendouzi. (Photo by Stu Forster/Allsport/Getty Images/Hulton Archive)

Indeed, but for an ill-timed headbutt in 2006, Zidane might have led his nation to another World Cup title.

But Guendouzi seems to love him. He previously picked out Zidane as his favourite and best French player of all time, telling

“First of all, he is a French player. For me he is the best French player ever. He is a player who managed to find opportunities in every match.”

The Arsenal man was picking his all-time XI, with Zidane front and centre to his selections.

It seems, then, that the Gunner star will have a natural sway if Madrid and Barca do come knocking. And in fairness, you can’t really blame his reasoning if he does choose Madrid.