Zinedine Zidane has expressed openness to a long-awaited return to management, as speculation linking him to Manchester United has resurfaced.
The 52-year-old Frenchman has been without a managerial role since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in May 2021.
During his time away, Zidane has been linked with numerous high-profile positions, including managerial roles at Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and national teams such as the United States, Brazil, and Algeria.
Despite the ongoing rumours, Zidane has remained patient, carefully considering his next move.
This week, Zidane fueled speculation of his return when he was spotted attending a training session at Real Betis.
His appearance comes at a time of growing pressure on Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, following a poor start to the season.
Just months ago, the club’s new leadership openly explored potential replacements for Ten Hag.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his advisors reportedly considered several high-profile candidates, including Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Gareth Southgate.
French outlet L’Equipe also reported Zidane’s interest in taking over at Old Trafford.
While Ten Hag ultimately retained his position, he remains under scrutiny, especially after Manchester United’s 3-0 defeat to Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Earlier this year, in February, Zidane attended the premiere of a film about his former Juventus manager, Marcelo Lippi.
When asked if he would consider returning to coaching, Zidane hinted at a potential comeback, leaving fans and pundits eagerly anticipating his next move.
He said: “Why not, anything can happen.
“Now I’m doing other things, but we’ll see.
“I’d certainly like to return to the bench.”
Zinedine Zidane has, to date, only managed Real Madrid during his coaching career, but his tenure was marked by remarkable success across two separate spells.
The former midfield maestro led the club to two La Liga titles and an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League triumphs, before stepping down at the end of the 2020/21 season.
Since then, Zidane has taken an extended break from management, signalling that he will only return for the right opportunity – one that aligns with his values and ambitions.
“Never say never,” Zidane told L’Equipe in 2022.
“Especially when you are a coach today.
“If I go back to a club, it is to win. I say this with all modesty.
“That’s why I can’t just go anywhere.
“For other reasons, too.
“Certain conditions make things more difficult.
“When someone says to me, ‘Do you want to go to Manchester [United]?’
“I understand English but I don’t fully master it.
“I know there are coaches who go to clubs without speaking the language, but I work differently.
“To win, many elements come into play.
“It’s a global context. I know what I need to win.
“Of course, I might not always win, but I know that you need to have this, this and this.
“And I want to do everything on my side to optimise my chances of victory.”
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