The name of Zinedine Zidane, the former Real Madrid coach and legendary French footballer, has resurfaced once again in connection with the possibility of him taking the helm at Manchester United. Despite being out of management since 2021, following his departure from Real Madrid, Zidane continues to be linked with top jobs across Europe, and Old Trafford is no exception. This time, the speculation comes at a moment when Manchester United are enduring a rough patch under Erik ten Hag. With five consecutive winless games and three Premier League matches without a single goal, pressure is mounting on the Dutchman to turn things around quickly.
Casemiro, Manchester United’s Brazilian midfielder, has added fuel to the fire by publicly praising Zidane’s managerial prowess. Having played under the French coach at Real Madrid, Casemiro has firsthand experience of Zidane’s approach and highlighted one of his most defining strengths—his ability to connect with players on an emotional level. Casemiro spoke glowingly of Zidane’s capacity to manage players individually, recognizing that each player brings unique emotions and needs to the team. This, according to Casemiro, is one of Zidane’s greatest strengths and the key to his success in managing a star-studded Real Madrid squad during his tenure.
Zidane’s ability to build strong relationships with his players helped guide Real Madrid to incredible heights, including three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. The trust he earned from his squad, including players like Casemiro, was pivotal in maintaining harmony and focus, especially during high-pressure situations. Casemiro’s praise of Zidane, which dates back to an interview in 2017, sheds light on how much the Brazilian midfielder appreciated Zidane’s unique approach to management—an approach that is rare to find among modern coaches, especially in top-tier football.
Despite his impressive résumé, Zidane has not been linked with many clubs since leaving Real Madrid. The main reason, as suggested by his agent Alain Migliaccio in 2018, is Zidane’s lack of interest in coaching in the Premier League. At that time, Migliaccio downplayed rumors of Zidane moving to England, indicating that the Frenchman did not seem eager to work in the fast-paced, often grueling world of English football. However, that hasn’t stopped the rumor mill from churning, especially with Manchester United’s current struggles and the ever-present demand for a manager with Zidane’s pedigree.
The context of Zidane being linked with Manchester United takes on even more significance following the recent appointment of Thomas Tuchel as England’s new national team manager. With Tuchel, a fellow elite-level coach, no longer available in the club market, the pool of top-tier managerial options has shrunk considerably. Zidane, as a result, stands out as one of the few high-profile names that could realistically step in if Manchester United’s board chooses to part ways with Erik ten Hag.
However, the big question remains whether Zidane would actually be interested in the Manchester United job. The club is historically prestigious, but their recent struggles both on and off the pitch could make the role less appealing for a manager who has only ever coached Real Madrid. Zidane is known for his deep connection with Real Madrid, both as a player and as a coach, and transitioning to a different football culture like that of Manchester United, especially during a tumultuous period, might not align with his professional ambitions.
Nonetheless, the allure of managing a club of Manchester United’s stature, especially one that has struggled to find consistency since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, could be tempting for Zidane. His tactical acumen, calm demeanor, and experience handling superstar players make him an ideal candidate to restore order and confidence within the squad.
For now, Erik ten Hag remains in charge, and he will be looking to steer the team back on track when United face Brentford this weekend. But should their poor form continue, the calls for change will only grow louder. Zidane, with his proven track record and ability to inspire winning football, could be seen as the ideal replacement. As the season progresses, Manchester United fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on developments, hoping that either Ten Hag can revive the team’s fortunes or that a managerial legend like Zidane could be tempted to take on the challenge at
Old Trafford.