Zinedine Zidane, who has only managed at the senior level during two stints at Real Madrid, is on the brink of returning to management after a four-year hiatus. Starting with Real Madrid Castilla, he later served as assistant to Carlo Ancelotti before taking the top job. His first spell saw him depart in 2018 with three Champions League titles and a La Liga crown. He returned in 2019 to salvage a struggling season, adding another La Liga title in 2020, before a surprising exit in 2021 via an open letter to the club and fans. Since then, he has been absent from the managerial scene.
Temptations from Europe’s Elite
Despite his absence, Zidane has not lacked offers. Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and former club Juventus have all attempted to lure him back, to no avail. Notably, PSG, rivals of Zidane’s beloved Olympique Marseille, aimed to use him to retain Kylian Mbappé. He has also rejected a lucrative €100m offer from the Middle East.
France Calling Zidane
Rumors of Zidane managing the French national team have persisted since his Real Madrid departure. Mbappé has expressed unwavering admiration, calling it a “great pleasure” to be coached by him. Yet, it was a shock when Didier Deschamps secured a two-year extension after France’s Euro 2024 semi-final loss to Spain.
Recent developments suggest Mbappé’s wish may come true. L’Equipe, as reported by Marca, claims Zidane jokingly discussed taking the France job in 2026 post-World Cup with former teammates at an anniversary event, notably absent Deschamps. The French publication indicates Zidane is aware of the speculation and the desire from France internationals to work with him, adding that he has begun preparations, reportedly assured of leading Les Bleus after Deschamps’ contract ends.
