Former Italy and Inter Milan defender Marco Materazzi has revealed what he said to
Zinedine Zidane in the 2006 World Cup final before the France midfielder headbutted him.
In one of the most controversial moments in footballing history, Zidane headbutted Materazzi in the 110th minute of the 2006 World Cup final between France and Italy, and Materazzi has now revealed what was said to cause Zidane's reaction in an interview with L'Equipe.
"My mother died when I was 15, I would never have insulted his," said Materazzi in regards to speculation that he insulted Zidane's mother.
"I spoke about his sister.
"What I said was stupid. But it didn't deserve that reaction.
"You would hear stronger words said on the streets of Naples, or Milan, or Paris, much more serious things."
Italy, of course, went on to win the final 5-3 on penalties and Materazzi has said he does not want that incident to overshadow both his country's victory and his performance in the final where he scored the Azzurri's equaliser and converted his penalty in the shootout.
"It doesn't mater, I don't hold any grudges and never will.�
Materazzi spent most of his career at Inter Milan but took on a player-manager role at Indian Super League club Chennaiyin FC in 2014.
As for Zidane, the former France captain led Real Madrid to their 11th Champions League triumph after previously working as the club's assistant manager and Castilla's first-team coach.