Zizou leads Real Madrid's training session as former team-mates wish him well

Zinedine Zidane's term as Real Madrid's head coach started with the right foot, as fans and former team-mates praised his appointment as the team's new manager. The former midfielder enjoyed his first training session with Los Blancos, joined by 6,000 fans that welcomed him with a standing ovation.

Before the team started working on the pitch, "Zizou" greeted each and everyone of his new players, including Gareth Bale, who has been reported to be upset by Rafa Benitez's sacking yesterday. Following his formal introduction as the team's manager, the team took the pitch and performed a series of drills in front of their supporters.

Historic day at #RMCity as the squad train with new coach Zinedine Zidane for the first time! #HalaMadrid https://t.co/eXm6WMI6lo

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) January 5, 2016

Following the team's training session, Zidane addressed the media and discussed a variety of topics, including Bale's supposed complaints about Benitez's departure.

"I understand Gareth Bale might be upset with Rafa leaving. But he'll get same affection & support from me," Zidane stated.

While some sources referred to Zidane as Real Madrid's attempt to replicate Pep Guardiola's success with Barcelona, the French coach wants to write his own history, keeping himself away from any comparison.

"You can’t compare me with Guardiola. I’ll try to do the best possible job but Guardiola is a wonderful coach and what he is doing is amazing. But I won’t compare myself, I never did that as a player and won’t do it as a coach. Winning is key at this club," the coach added.

Beckham, Roberto Carlos & Luis Figo support Zinedine Zidane's new job with Los Blancos

Even if he doesn't have experience coaching any top level team, a number of Zidane's team-mates voiced their support for the Frenchman.

Roberto Carlos shared his thoughts about the Ballon D'Or winner in an interview, praising president Florentino Pérez for making the call.

"Zidane is not just a trainer, he is a professor. Finally, This is, by far, the best decision Florentino Pérez has made so far. Zidane has a brand new approach as manager, he understands what the players want," the former Brazilian left back stated.

Meanwhile, David Beckham and Luis Figo wished their former team-mate good luck with a couple of social media posts.

Good luck my good friend @ZidaneOfficial_ in this new adventure pic.twitter.com/BMZ5ftpTt6

— Luís Figo (@LuisFigo) January 5, 2016

Beckham's Instagram posts quickly earned thousands of likes.

Does it get any better than this ?? A man that has been the best at a game we all love , taking over of a club that myself and many more people love... Someone with drive , passion and also doesn't accept failure on any level.. Taking over from a manager that has huge experience and respect in the game , but taking on a position that he will relish ... THE BEST PERSON FOR THE JOB

 

Match details, result and original broadcast info

Real Madrid 5 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

January 9, 2016 2:30pmEstadio Santiago Bernabéu (Madrid)

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