Zinedine Zidane (France) 1996 – 2001
Another Frenchman makes the list, which is of little surprise considering the country’s footballing stock during the latter half of this decade. This time it is probably France’s greatest ever.
Although winning both FIFA World Player and the Ballon d’Or in 1998 was more down to his achievements with the national team when winning the World Cup, rather than his efforts for his club, Juventus, Zizou’s club form and influence grew with each passing season at the Bianconeri.
After a slow start to his Serie A life, when both fans and the club president gave him a frosty reception, the midfield maestro eventually found his form and helped guide Juve to domestic success.
Never a prolific goalscorer, this fantasista provided the ammunition for all around him with his extraordinary touch, control and vision.
Although he wore number 21 at Juventus, perhaps Zidane’s greatest feat was that of overtaking the club’s former French number 10 legend, Michel Platini, as the greatest.
’90s Serie A clubs: Juventus
’90s Serie A apps/goals: 151/24
’90s Serie A honours: FIFA World Player of the Year, Balon d’Or Winner, Serie A title x 2, Intercontinental Cup, UEFA Supercup, Italian Supercup, Intertoto Cup.
