Zidane's rotation policy was met with mixed emotions during the first months of the season, but eventually proved to be a right approach to end all competitions on a high. Speaking to UEFA.com, the French manager discussed this policy and how he got Cristiano Ronaldo to go with the idea of resting, even if that meant not playing all the games this year.
"We had a few conversations, and we agreed that he needed to rest. We're pretty intelligent, and he knew he needed to take a break. It wasn't about his physical shape, which is great, but he wanted to be fully fit during the final weeks of the season, when you're playing to win titles," Zidane stated.
The French manager hinted that this approach could give CR7 more seasons than those expected a couple of years ago.
"Sometimes, you just need to take a break. It's not about this season in particular, for years he'd been playing 60 or 70 games per season, and it takes a toll on your body. Even with all that work, he's shown he can do it all when he's on the pitch. No words can make him enough justice. Everything's possible when he's playing," he added.
Later, Zidane showed his respect for Juventus' coach, Massimiliano Allegri, who has brought the team to another level since he took over.
"He deserves everything that's happening to him right now. He's shown he's one of the best coaches in the world by reconstructing Juventus. You have to praise the club and the players, but most of all goes to the coach, who made it all happen. I have nothing but respect for him," Real Madrid's coach concluded.
