Zidane: No regrets about quitting French team

PARIS: Football star Zinedine Zidane says he does not regret retiring from the French national squad. 

In an interview with France Football magazine on Friday, Zidane said that after Euro 2004, he was ready to hand over his spot to a younger player like Camel Meriem. 

“I leave the scene to the young, and I admit I would appreciate that Camel Meriem pick up the torch,” Zidane said. 

Bordeaux’s promising Meriem, 25, made his first appearance for France against Poland last year. 

“They wanted me to become a relay, a guide for the upcoming generation. But I never had the soul of a leader,” Zidane said. 

At 32, Zidane said his career is far from over. His contract with giants Real Madrid lasts until 2007. 

“I still have one or two years of good time, of playing at the highest level,” he said.  

“The pleasure is different. It’s the pleasure of a mature man who tastes his last seasons at this level.” – AP