Few players have had the privilege of sharing the pitch with as many legends as Gianfranco Zola. From his early days in Italy to his iconic spell at Chelsea, the diminutive maestro played alongside some of the greatest footballers of all time. When asked to select his all-time best teammates, Zola crafted an XI brimming with defensive solidity, midfield steel, and attacking genius. Here’s a breakdown of his dream lineup:
Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon (Parma)
One of the best goalkeepers in history, Buffon was a rock between the posts for Parma during Zola’s time at the club, showcasing his shot-stopping ability, leadership, and immense potential as a young goalkeeper.
Right-Back: Lilian Thuram (Parma)
A defensive powerhouse, Thuram was a key part of Parma’s success during Zola’s time at the club. With his immense strength, tactical intelligence, and ability to contribute in attack, Thuram was an easy choice for the right-back spot.
Centre-Back: Franco Baresi (Italy)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time, Baresi led by example with his composure, positioning, and leadership. As a key figure in the Italian national team, Baresi’s influence extended beyond his defensive prowess, making him a natural choice in Zola’s dream XI.
Centre-Back: John Terry (Chelsea)
Terry was the heart and soul of Chelsea’s defense during Zola’s final years at Stamford Bridge. A warrior on the pitch, his aerial dominance, tackling ability, and leadership made him indispensable for club and country.
Left-Back: Paolo Maldini (Italy)
A player synonymous with defensive perfection, Maldini could operate at both left-back and centre-back with equal ease. Zola had the honor of playing alongside him for Italy, where his class, longevity, and tactical awareness stood out.
Defensive Midfield: Dennis Wise (Chelsea)
Zola’s captain at Chelsea, Wise embodied passion and determination. His ability to break up play, rally his teammates, and drive forward in attack made him a vital component of Chelsea’s midfield during Zola’s time in England.
Central Midfield: Roberto Di Matteo (Chelsea & Italy)
A composed and intelligent midfielder, Di Matteo brought balance to Chelsea’s midfield. His vision and passing ability complemented Zola’s attacking style, while his famous goals in cup finals cemented his legacy at Stamford Bridge.
Central Midfield: Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
Lampard went on to become Chelsea’s all-time top scorer, but even in his early days, his eye for goal and work rate were evident. Zola saw firsthand his ability to control a game and pop up with crucial goals from midfield.
Attacking Midfield: Roberto Baggio (Italy)
One of the most technically gifted players in football history, Baggio and Zola played together for Italy in the 1990s. With his dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal, Baggio was a natural selection in Zola’s ultimate XI.
Attacking Midfield: Diego Maradona (Napoli)
The greatest player Zola ever played with, Maradona was more than just a teammate—he was a mentor. At Napoli, Zola had the unique opportunity to learn from the Argentine icon, whose genius on the ball and match-winning ability remain unparalleled.
Striker: Careca (Napoli)
A lethal Brazilian forward, Careca was part of Napoli’s golden era alongside Maradona. His finishing, movement, and ability to link up play made him one of the deadliest strikers of his generation, earning him a place as the lone forward in Zola’s dream team.
Final Thoughts
Zola’s ultimate teammates XI is a testament to the incredible career he had. From defensive stalwarts like Baresi and Maldini to attacking magicians like Maradona and Baggio, this team would strike fear into any opposition. With a perfect blend of skill, leadership, and experience, it’s no wonder Zola himself became such a legendary figure in football.