Reports have surfaced indicating that Zinedine Zidane is reportedly open to the idea of taking over as Manchester United’s manager, but the legendary French coach has a particular transfer target in mind if he ends up replacing Erik ten Hag. Zidane, who has been linked with some of Europe’s top managerial posts, is believed to have set his sights on Barcelona’s Jules Koundé as a critical addition to bolster United’s defense. Koundé, a versatile defender capable of playing both centrally and on the right, is viewed as a vital piece in reinforcing a backline that has struggled this season.
Manchester United have endured their worst start to a Premier League campaign in recent memory. With just eight points from their opening seven games, the Red Devils find themselves in a disappointing 14th place, far below the expectations of both fans and pundits. The team’s poor form has increased the pressure on Ten Hag, who is facing mounting scrutiny from all sides, including the media, the fanbase, and the club’s board. Despite these challenges, Ten Hag is expected to remain at the helm at least until after the international break, with his immediate focus on the upcoming fixture against Brentford.
Ten Hag has publicly acknowledged that improvements are needed, particularly in attack, where United have struggled to convert chances into goals. However, the Dutchman remains defiant in his defense of the team’s progress in other areas, insisting that the foundation for long-term success is being built. He has repeatedly emphasized the importance of patience and insists that the team is capable of turning their fortunes around in the coming weeks. However, with pressure mounting, the upcoming fixtures could be pivotal in determining his future at the club.
Zidane’s rumored interest in taking the reins at Old Trafford has added another layer of intrigue to the ongoing managerial speculation. The former Real Madrid coach, who has won three Champions League titles, is known for his tactical acumen and ability to manage high-profile players. His potential arrival would likely signal a shift in the club’s transfer strategy, with Zidane reportedly keen to bring in defensive reinforcements as a top priority. Barcelona’s Jules Koundé, in particular, is believed to be a player that Zidane admires greatly, and if he were to succeed Ten Hag, Koundé could become one of the first names on United’s transfer wish list.
Koundé, a key figure in Barcelona’s defense, has impressed with his ability to read the game, his composure on the ball, and his physical presence. Zidane reportedly sees the Frenchman as the solution to Manchester United’s defensive frailties, which have been laid bare in recent matches. With United’s current defensive options struggling for consistency, Koundé’s arrival could provide the solidity and leadership that the team desperately needs. His versatility also adds to his appeal, as he can fill multiple roles across the backline, offering Zidane tactical flexibility.
While it remains to be seen whether Zidane will indeed take over at Manchester United, his potential interest in the job—and in players like Koundé—suggests that significant changes could be on the horizon for the club. As the speculation continues, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see how the team responds in the coming weeks and whether Ten Hag can turn things around before the club considers making a drastic managerial change. For now, Zidane remains one of the most high-profile names linked to the job, and his potential arrival would undoubtedly shake up the Premier League and bring new hope to a Manchester United side in desperate need of a fresh start.