Zidane works for Real Madrid as an advisor and has already tried to convince Ribery to join the Spaniards, but it now appears the France winger is going to sign a new five-year deal with the Bundesliga side.

And Zidane has accepted Ribery's decision, believing it to be the right one.

"The important thing is that the player does what his heart says," he told the Bild newspaper.

"He does not have to join Real just because I say so. If he stays (with Bayern), then I think it is perfect.

"I would have really liked to have him here because he is a great player and I like him as a person."

Ribery seemed close to joining Madrid last summer when Zidane tried to convince him to come to the Primera Division side, but he has no regrets about failing to lure his fellow countryman to the Spanish capital since Ribery appears happy in the Bundesliga.

"I also had the impression that he wanted to come to Real and I had hoped he would, for the good of Real because he is such a great player," added Zidane.

"He is my friend and respects me a lot and I hope he one day becomes World Footballer of the Year.

"What he has achieved in the last five years is impressive. He has had things tough in his life, but he has done sensationally.

"But you don't have to have played for Real to reach the very top.

"I am happy for Franck. Bayern are one of the biggest clubs in the world. I like FC Bayern a lot - they treat everybody well and respect them."