Zinedine Zidane, the Frenchman who managed Real Madrid twice, most recently from 2019 to 2021, is reportedly on the verge of a coaching comeback with a major European club. Since leaving Real Madrid in the summer of 2021, Zidane has been without a team and is now interested in taking over the French national team, though this has not yet been confirmed.
Meanwhile, it seems that Real Madrid is not planning any coaching changes in the immediate future. Zidane’s potential return would also be complicated by Xabi Alonso, who is gaining valuable experience at Bayer Leverkusen and is viewed as a top candidate to succeed Carlo Ancelotti.
However, these developments do not rule out Zidane’s return to coaching. According to *The Sun*, he has been in regular discussions with Manchester City’s management about possibly succeeding Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium. Club officials believe Zidane would be the perfect choice to lead the team following Guardiola’s successful reign, during which he won numerous titles. Additionally, the new sports director at Manchester City consulted Guardiola about Zidane as a successor, to which Guardiola responded positively, stating, “Zidane is the ideal replacement for me in the team.”
The article concluded by mentioning that Zidane has advised Manchester City management to target Real Madrid star Rodrygo as his first signing if he decides to join the club. However, a significant challenge for Manchester City in securing Zidane’s commitment is his dislike for the UK’s cold climate and the language barrier, which he finds uncomfortable. Despite this, he has begun to consider the offer.
Zinedine Zidane’s potential return to management is indeed stirring speculation. Despite his strong inclination towards managing the French national team, the opportunity to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City is reportedly being considered. City’s management sees Zidane as a top candidate, given his tactical prowess, leadership, and past success with Real Madrid, including three consecutive Champions League titles in his first stint.
Although Zidane has shown interest in coaching France, the national team’s role is not yet open, as Didier Deschamps remains at the helm. Zidane’s interest in club management may align with Manchester City’s future plans, especially if Guardiola steps down in the coming seasons. Xabi Alonso’s name as a possible successor at Real Madrid adds a layer of complexity, as Real seems to have its sights set on a future transition as well.
The idea of Zidane coaching in the Premier League is fascinating yet challenging, particularly given his discomfort with the climate and language in the UK. These factors could influence his decision, though the opportunity to shape Manchester City’s post-Guardiola era, potentially with players like Rodrygo, might sway him. Still, until official statements or negotiations emerge, Zidane’s future remains an open question, with fans closely watching for updates.
