''Why put another layer of gold paint on the Bentley when you are losing the entire engine?'' - Zinedine Zidane.
A rhetorical musing it may have been, but the Frenchman's lack of understanding at Real Madrid's decision to get rid of the anchor that was Claude Makelele, in favour of another yet another plush attacker in the form of David Beckham, signified everything that was wrong about the Galactico era. Turfed out of Real Madrid for not being skilful enough, Madrid president Florentino Perez fired a parting barb at the outgoing defensive midfielder, lamenting his 'average technique' and his inability to 'pass the ball more than three metres'. Zidane could see the flaws behind selling one of the club's most valuable and important players for not being stylish enough - it's indicative that the biggest club on the planet would have to wait 11 years until they won their tenth European Cup. Nevertheless, Makelele's availability alerted some of Europe's biggest clubs, with Manchester United accredited with an interest in the £10 million-rated 30 year old.
''I'd love to go and play for Manchester United. I will say yes if an offer comes in. I feel the need to discover a different championship after five years in Spain. Playing for Alex Ferguson is something I want to experience. He is a truly great manager.'' - Claude Makelele, May 2003.
With the club having been in contact with the Frenchman's representatives, a move never materialised as soon as the new money of Chelsea swooped in and enticed him with promises of league titles and a lavish salary.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
