Former Real Madrid Manager Zinedine Zidane has finally Responded to the media after being linked as being next Manchester United manager if Erig Ten Hag is sacked after the international break. Zinedine Zidane has already provided nine-word reason, Zidane unlikely to replace Ten Hag at United ⚽
As Erik ten Hag faces increasing pressure, Zinedine Zidane’s earlier reasons for declining the Manchester United managerial position have resurfaced. Despite the club’s rich history and global status, Zidane has been hesitant to take on the challenge at Old Trafford, citing the language barrier as a significant concern.
Ten Hag, 54, is currently under scrutiny after losing two of Manchester United’s first three Premier League matches this season, including a crushing 3-0 defeat to Liverpool. Meanwhile, Zidane, who has been without a managerial role since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, has been repeatedly linked to the Manchester United job during periods of uncertainty at the club.
However, the prospect of Sir Jim Ratcliffe convincing Zidane to reconsider his stance and take over at Old Trafford seems unlikely unless Zidane has changed his mind about managing in England. Zidane was notably associated with the club in 2021, after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure, but despite the allure of managing one of the world’s most prestigious teams, he ultimately declined.
In an interview with L’Equipe following his decision to turn down the United role, Zidane openly discussed the language barrier as a significant obstacle. He admitted that, while he understands English, he does not have full command of the language. “I understand English, but I do not totally master it,” Zidane explained. “I have my own way of working, even though some coaches accept roles without fully speaking the local language.” He further noted that winning involves many elements, and his approach requires a comprehensive understanding. Zidane implied that the language challenge might be too great for him to effectively implement his methods.
Whether Zidane has improved his English since then is unknown, but if not, Ratcliffe and Manchester United’s management may have to dismiss him as a viable option. Nonetheless, reports from France earlier this year suggested that Zidane had shown some interest in the Manchester United role. This interest, however, was expressed before Ten Hag’s appointment, and it remains unclear whether Zidane’s views have softened since.
Interestingly, Zidane isn’t the only high-profile figure linked with the Manchester United job. Former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was also in discussions with the club after his exit from Bayern Munich last season. Serious negotiations took place, and a deal was reportedly near. However, United ultimately chose to stay with Ten Hag, amid rumors that Tuchel was unhappy with the club’s transfer strategy and overall direction.
The future remains uncertain for both Ten Hag and Manchester United. While speculation continues over his potential replacements, one thing is clear—Zidane remains a highly desirable candidate, but his potential arrival in the Premier League, particularly at Manchester United, is still in doubt due to his previous concerns about language and other possible factors. Only time will reveal if Zidane’s position changes or if Manchester United will need to consider other managerial options in the event of a change.
