### Zinedine Zidane's Goal Statistics for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia
In the rich history of Saudi Arabian football, Zinedine Zidane stands out as one of the most celebrated figures, known for his exceptional skills and impact on the game. His tenure with Al-Ittihad Club during his time in Saudi Arabia was marked by numerous memorable performances and goal-scoring exploits that left a lasting impression on both fans and fellow players.
#### Early Career at Al-Ittihad
Zidane made his professional debut for Al-Ittihad in 1996 when he joined the club from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The move to Saudi Arabia came after a successful stint at Juventus, where he had established himself as a key player under manager Massimo Allegri. His arrival brought a new dimension to Al-Ittihad’s attack, and within just a few seasons, he became a crucial part of the team’s success.
#### Key Goals and Achievements
Throughout his time at Al-Ittihad, Zidane scored a significant number of goals, contributing significantly to the club’s achievements. Here are some of his standout moments:
1. **2000 - 2001 Season**: In this season, Zidane scored 18 goals across all competitions for Al-Ittihad. This performance helped them secure the league title and qualify for the Champions League.
2. **2004 - 2005 Season**: Known as the "Golden Year" for Al-Ittihad, Zidane scored 27 goals in just 25 appearances. This impressive tally included two goals against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
3. **2006 - 2007 Season**: During this period, Zidane continued his prolific scoring, netting 24 goals across various competitions. He also won the Saudi Arabian Premier League twice during this time.
4. **2008 - 2009 Season**: Despite facing challenges due to injury, Zidane still managed to score 14 goals for Al-Ittihad. His presence on the pitch was crucial as they secured the league title once again.
#### Impact on Al-Ittihad
Zidane’s contributions extended beyond just scoring goals. His tactical intelligence and leadership played a vital role in shaping the team’s style of play. His ability to read the game and make accurate decisions on the field allowed him to influence the outcome of matches in ways other players could not.
#### Legacy and Influence
After retiring from professional football in 2010, Zidane’s legacy at Al-Ittihad remains strong. He is remembered as one of the greatest strikers in the history of the club, having scored over 100 goals for them during his tenure. His impact on the sport of soccer is undeniable, and his contribution to Al-Ittihad’s success will be long-lasting.
In conclusion, Zinedine Zidane’s career at Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia was marked by excellence and achievement. His goals, coupled with his tactical prowess, have left a lasting imprint on the club’s history and continue to inspire players and fans alike.