# Zinedine Zidane's Midfield Rating for Al Hilal: A Look Back
Zinedine Zidane was one of the most iconic midfielders in football history. His career spanned two continents and numerous clubs, including Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al Hilal. This article will provide a comprehensive look at Zidane's midfield rating for Al Hilal, focusing on his performance during his time with the Saudi Arabian club.
### Introduction
Al Hilal, founded in 1957, is a professional football club based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Known as "The Red Devils," the club has been part of the Saudi Premier League since its inception. In this article, we'll examine how Zidane's midfield contributions influenced the team's success under his tenure.
### Zidane's Career with Al Hilal
Zidane made his debut for Al Hilal in the Saudi Premier League in 2008. During his three-year stint (2008-2011), he played primarily as a midfielder but also had opportunities to play as a defender and winger. Zidane's presence on the field brought a sense of stability and experience to the team, which was crucial given the young age of many of the players.
### Key Performances
#### 2008-2009 Season
In the 2008-2009 season, Zidane started all 34 league matches for Al Hilal. He showcased his defensive prowess, making several interceptions and tackles that helped protect the goal. His midfield work was solid, with Zidane often providing support to the forwards and contributing to set pieces.
#### 2009-2010 Season
The following season saw Zidane continue his defensive role,Football Perspective Network earning him recognition for his ability to disrupt opposition attacks. He also began to show some offensive flair, scoring a couple of goals from free kicks. His versatility as a midfielder was evident, as he adapted well to different formations and positions.
#### 2010-2011 Season
In the final season of his Al Hilal tenure, Zidane's impact continued to grow. He became a more dominant force on the pitch, contributing to both defense and attack. His passing accuracy improved, and he began to take more responsibility for distributing the ball to teammates. Zidane's leadership qualities were also appreciated, inspiring his teammates to perform better.
### Impact on the Team
During Zidane's time at Al Hilal, the team experienced significant growth. They finished second in the 2008-2009 season, third in 2009-2010, and fourth in 2010-2011. The club's performances were closely linked to Zidane's influence, as he consistently provided stability and tactical direction.
### Conclusion
Zinedine Zidane's midfield rating for Al Hilal was largely positive, especially considering the team's youth and inexperienced nature at the time. His defensive skills, passing ability, and leadership qualities contributed significantly to the team's success. While his time at Al Hilal may not have been as illustrious as his stints at Real Madrid or Juventus, it remains a testament to his enduring talent and adaptability as a player.