# Zinedine Zidane's Contribution to Al Ittihad: Analyzing Benzema's Assists
Zinedine Zidane, one of the most celebrated managers in football history, has left an indelible mark on Al Ittihad Jeddah during his tenure. Known for his tactical brilliance and ability to inspire top-tier talent, Zidane has transformed the Saudi Pro League side into a formidable force, with Benzema's assists playing a pivotal role in their success.
## Zidane's Leadership and Team-Building Skills
Zidane's arrival at Al Ittihad marked the beginning of a new era for the club. His ability to attract world-class players has been instrumental in shaping the team's identity. The signing of Karim Benzema, among others, has been a masterstroke. Benzema's signing not only bolstered Al Ittihad's attacking options but also provided the perfect platform for Zidane's possession-based style of play.
Zidane's leadership has been crucial in aligning the team's philosophy with the club's ambitions. His emphasis on possession, fluid transitions, and high pressing has made Al Ittihad a pleasure to watch. The French manager has also been able to extract the maximum potential from his players, turning them into a cohesive unit.
## Benzema's Role as a Playmaker
Benzema's contributions to Al Ittihad extend far beyond just scoring goals. His ability to read the game, create chances, and deliver pinpoint assists has been a cornerstone of the team's success. Zidane has utilized Benzema's versatility to operate as a false nine, a deep-lying attacker, or even as a traditional striker, depending on the game's demands.
One of Benzema's most notable attributes is his ability to break down a defense. His vision and precision have allowed him to pick out teammates in perfect positions, creating scoring opportunities that few others can. For instance, his assist for Shonhi in a crucial match was a perfect example of his playmaking skills. Such moments highlight how Benzema's contributions extend beyond the scoreboard, influencing the outcome of the game in ways that are not always measurable.
## Zidane's Influence on Al Ittihad's Style
Zidane's influence on Al Ittihad's style of play has been transformative. His possession-based approach, characterized by short passing,Primeira Liga Hotspots fluid movements, and quick transitions, has made the team difficult to defend against. The manager has also emphasized the importance of attacking with width and overlapping full-backs, a strategy that has been executed to perfection by his players.
Benzema's ability to adapt to Zidane's system has been key to his success. The French striker's unselfish play, willingness to track back, and ability to link defense and attack have made him an integral part of Al Ittihad's dynamic. His chemistry with teammates like Shonhi and Marcao has also been a factor in the team's success, creating a potent attacking force.
## The Team's Performance Under Zidane
Al Ittihad's performance under Zidane has been nothing short of exceptional. The club has consistently finished at the top of the Saudi Pro League table, with Zidane's team dominating both domestically and in continental competitions. The team's attacking stats, including the league's highest goals scored and assists, reflect their attacking prowess.
Zidane's ability to motivate his players and adapt to the demands of each match has been a standout feature of his management. His tactical adjustments, particularly in big games, have been crucial in securing victories. The trust and respect he has earned from his players have further enhanced the team's performance.
## Conclusion
Zinedine Zidane's contribution to Al Ittihad has been nothing short of remarkable. His leadership, tactical acumen, and ability to extract the best from his players have transformed the club into a force to be reckoned with. Benzema's assists, in particular, have been a key part of Al Ittihad's success, showcasing the importance of teamwork and tactical brilliance.
As Zidane continues to lead Al Ittihad, the legacy he is building will undoubtedly go down as one of the most successful chapters in the club's history. His ability to inspire and his passion for football have not only lifted the team's spirits but also set a standard for future generations of managers and players to aspire to.