Zinedine Zidane verbally agrees return to management

Zinedine Zidane is a name that keeps cropping up whenever Manchester United have looked for a new manager.

The former France international won back-to-back World’s Best Club Coach awards in 2016/17 and 2017/18 while managing Real Madrid.

In his five years managing the Spanish giants, Zidane led them to win two La Liga titles, three Champions League trophies, two UEFA Supercups, two FIFA Club World Cups and two Supercopas.

As such, the former midfielder established himself as a top manager, with many elite sides wanting him at the helm.

This is true of United who were linked with appointing him before both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim were appointed.

Now, The Red Devils are looking to appoint another permanent manager for the second time in two years, however have missed the boat to hiring Zinedine Zidane.

Le Parisien has reported that the 53-year-old has agreed terms to take over the France national team from Didier Deschamps’ after the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

Over the weekend, the President of the French Football Federation (FFF), Philippe Diallo commented that he knows “who will be France’s next manager.”

Deschamps has been with the France national team since 2012, having won the World Cup in 2018 and the UEFA Nations League in 2020/21.

Given that Zidane hasn’t managed since 2021, when France last won a trophy, it’s clear he’s taken the time to ensure his return to the dugout is right for him.

Back in October 2024, the former Real Madrid manager talked about getting back in the hot seat and explained: “If I go back to a club, it is to win. I say this with all modesty.”

He continued “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.”

Now, the former midfielder appears to have found the right fit for him, however it’s unlikely to affect United.

The Red Devils are enjoying a promising run under Michael Carrick and as such could still upgrade him to being the permanent manager in the summer.