Former Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane is once again being rumored as a potential candidate for the managerial position at Manchester United, with current boss Erik ten Hag facing increasing pressure. Zidane, who has been out of management since departing Real Madrid in 2021, is reportedly being considered as United struggles with a poor run of form, leading to speculation about a possible leadership change.
The speculation surrounding Zidane has intensified in recent weeks as Ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford becomes more uncertain due to a series of disappointing results. Manchester United has gone five games without a win, including three Premier League matches where they failed to score. With Ten Hag’s future in doubt, the upcoming match against Brentford is seen as critical for his continued tenure at the club.
Zidane’s name has resurfaced in discussions following Thomas Tuchel’s recent appointment to a managerial position in England, further reducing the pool of elite coaches available. Despite past doubts about Zidane’s interest in managing in the Premier League—his agent Alain Migliaccio, back in 2018, expressed that the French legend wasn’t particularly keen on a role in English football—Zidane continues to be linked with Manchester United as Ten Hag’s job security becomes more fragile.
Zidane’s managerial record makes him an attractive option for Manchester United. During his two stints at Real Madrid, he led the club to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018, along with two La Liga championships. He is also known for his excellent relationship with players, a quality praised by Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who played under Zidane during his time at Madrid.
Casemiro has spoken highly of Zidane’s leadership style, describing how his ability to connect with players went beyond tactical expertise. Zidane’s personal touch, his understanding of individual emotions and needs, has been credited as a key factor in the unity and success of the Madrid team under his guidance.
Casemiro’s endorsement adds weight to the speculation that Zidane could be a suitable candidate for Manchester United. Some believe that a reunion with Zidane could help revitalize the midfielder’s form, as well as the team’s overall performance. Zidane’s experience managing star players and leading them to success could prove invaluable at United, a club that has struggled to find consistency despite having many high-profile signings.
Although Ten Hag remains in charge for now, his position looks increasingly precarious. Manchester United’s inconsistency under his leadership has left the team underperforming in the Premier League, far below the club’s expectations. If the team’s poor form continues, calls for Ten Hag’s replacement are expected to grow louder, with Zidane’s name likely to top the list of potential successors.
Zidane’s availability since 2021 has kept him in the conversation for several top managerial roles in European football, but he has yet to return to the sidelines. Should he take over at Manchester United, it would signify a major shift in the club’s approach, bringing in a manager with a philosophy and background distinctly different from Ten Hag’s. Zidane’s experience in managing teams full of world-class talent could be particularly useful for United, which has struggled to build a cohesive unit despite its numerous star players.
The continued rumors of Zidane’s potential arrival reflect the growing frustration among Manchester United fans, many of whom are eager to see the club return to its glory days. Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, United has been unable to consistently challenge for major honors, and Zidane’s proven track record could offer the hope of revival that supporters are yearning for.
Ultimately, Zidane’s potential move to Manchester United remains speculative and will largely depend on the team’s performance in the coming weeks. If Ten Hag can turn things around, he may put an end to the Zidane rumors. However, if the team’s struggles continue, the Frenchman may indeed become a more realistic option for the Old Trafford bench.
