“Zidane Slams Ferguson’s Controversial Take on Gerrard’s Legacy”
“Zidane Fires Back at Ferguson’s Bold Claims About Gerrard’s Legacy”
“Zidane Defends Gerrard Against Ferguson’s ‘Top, Top Player’ Remark”
Zinedine Zidane stood up for Steven Gerrard following Sir Alex Ferguson’s contentious claim that the ex-Liverpool captain didn’t qualify as a “top, top player.” Gerrard, a product of Liverpool’s academy and a pivotal figure in the club’s iconic moments, is celebrated as one of their greatest legends.
Gerrard vs. Ferguson: Zidane Weighs in on the Debate Over Greatness
Steven Gerrard’s legacy as a Liverpool legend is etched in football history. From leading the Reds to a miraculous Champions League triumph in 2005—overturning a 3-0 deficit against AC Milan—to his unforgettable equalizer in the 2006 FA Cup final against West Ham, Gerrard’s career is filled with moments that define greatness.
Despite his achievements, Gerrard’s standing among Premier League legends has long been a topic of debate. Comparisons with Frank Lampard and Paul Scholes persist, but Sir Alex Ferguson’s claim in his 2013 autobiography that Gerrard wasn’t a “top, top player” stirred controversy across the footballing world.
Zidane’s Resounding Defense
Zinedine Zidane, hailed as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, strongly disagreed with Ferguson’s assessment. Speaking to The Mirror, the French maestro dismissed the remarks as “strange,” offering high praise for Gerrard’s exceptional talent:
> “For two or three years, Steven Gerrard was the best midfield player in the world. He was loyal to Liverpool, but if he had chosen to leave, every top club in Europe would have wanted him.
> “Alex Ferguson is one of the most successful managers ever, but to say Gerrard is not a top player is wrong.”
Zidane’s glowing endorsement of Gerrard’s abilities underscores the respect the Liverpool icon commands among football’s elite.
Ferguson’s Divisive Take
In his autobiography, Ferguson delivered his controversial verdict:
> “I’m one of the few who felt Gerrard was not a top, top player.”
While Ferguson’s managerial accomplishments are unmatched, this particular opinion has drawn widespread criticism. For many, Gerrard’s contributions to Liverpool and English football unequivocally rank him among the all-time greats.
A Legacy Beyond Debate
With 710 appearances for Liverpool, Gerrard’s loyalty and influence are unmatched. His ability to deliver in crucial moments, combined with his leadership on and off the pitch, has immortalized him in football lore. Zidane’s defense only reinforces what Liverpool fans and countless others already know: Steven Gerrard’s greatness is beyond question.