DINH DOONG

Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane is once again being linked with the possibility of becoming the next head coach at Manchester United, amid increasing pressure on current boss Erik ten Hag. Zidane, who has been out of management since leaving the Spanish giants in 2021, is rumored to be in consideration for the United role as speculation grows about a change at the club due to their poor form.

The prospect of Zidane at Old Trafford has resurfaced as Ten Hag faces mounting scrutiny following a dismal run of results. United have gone five consecutive games without a win, including three Premier League matches without scoring a single goal. This has led to doubts over Ten Hag’s future despite him remaining in charge for now, with the upcoming clash against Brentford seen as crucial for the Dutchman’s tenure.

The speculation around Zidane’s potential appointment comes in the wake of Thomas Tuchel’s recent move to manage England, which has significantly reduced the pool of elite coaches available. Zidane’s name has frequently been associated with United in the past, though doubts over his interest in managing in England have lingered. Back in 2018, his agent Alain Migliaccio indicated that Zidane was not keen on a move to the Premier League, suggesting that the Frenchman preferred other options. Despite these past reservations, rumors of Zidane taking over at Manchester United persist, especially given the current state of uncertainty surrounding the club’s managerial situation.

Zidane’s impressive track record as a manager, particularly during his time at Real Madrid, makes him an attractive candidate for United. He enjoyed great success with Los Blancos, securing three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018, along with two La Liga titles. Zidane is renowned for his ability to connect with players, a skill that has been highlighted by Casemiro, who played under Zidane at Real Madrid. The Brazilian midfielder, who has since joined Manchester United, has spoken highly of Zidane’s strengths as a manager, emphasizing the Frenchman’s knack for understanding players on an individual level.

In 2017, during Zidane’s first spell in charge at Real Madrid, Casemiro praised his former boss for his unique approach to player management. He noted that Zidane’s success was not only due to his tactical knowledge but also his ability to relate to players and recognize their emotional states. Casemiro explained that Zidane understood that each player is different and tailored his approach accordingly, which helped foster a strong connection within the squad. This personalized management style is seen as one of Zidane’s defining qualities, setting him apart from many other high-profile coaches.

Casemiro’s endorsement of Zidane adds weight to the ongoing speculation about a potential move to United. Given the midfielder’s recent struggles to replicate his best form at Old Trafford, some believe that the reunion with Zidane could help reignite the performances of key players and bring stability to the team. Zidane’s reputation for bringing the best out of talented squads, combined with his proven track record of winning major trophies, positions him as a prime candidate for any top club facing a managerial crisis.

As things stand, Erik ten Hag continues to lead United, but the pressure is undeniably mounting. His tenure has been marked by inconsistency, with the team showing flashes of potential only to regress in key moments. The recent run of poor results has left the club languishing far from where they would expect to be in the league, and without improvement, the calls for a change will only grow louder. Should United decide to part ways with Ten Hag, Zidane would certainly be one of the most high-profile replacements available.

The Frenchman’s availability since 2021 has kept him in the conversation for several top jobs across Europe, yet he has remained on the sidelines, reportedly waiting for the right opportunity to return to management. His potential arrival at United would represent a significant shift in approach, bringing in a manager with a distinctly different background and philosophy compared to Ten Hag. Zidane’s experience in handling star-studded squads at Real Madrid could be crucial for a United team that has struggled to integrate its various big-name signings into a cohesive unit.

The persistent rumors of Zidane’s possible appointment also reflect the desperation within the United fanbase for a return to the glory days. Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, the club has gone through several managers without finding lasting success. Zidane’s potential to restore the club’s winning mentality and challenge for major honors would be a tantalizing prospect for supporters who have grown frustrated with the team’s prolonged period of mediocrity.

Although Zidane’s name continues to be linked with the United job, much depends on the club’s results in the coming weeks. If Ten Hag can turn things around, he may still salvage his position and put the Zidane rumors to rest. However, if the team’s struggles persist, the pressure to make a change could become overwhelming, and Zidane would undoubtedly be at the forefront of United’s search for a new manager.

In conclusion, Zinedine Zidane remains a potential candidate to take over at Manchester United as the club navigates a challenging period under Erik ten Hag. With the Dutchman struggling to reverse the team’s poor form, Zidane’s availability and illustrious resume make him an appealing option. Casemiro’s praise for Zidane’s managerial qualities, particularly his ability to connect with players, further adds to the intrigue surrounding a possible reunion between the two. While Ten Hag remains in charge for now, the looming specter of Zidane’s potential arrival serves as a reminder that, in football, nothing is ever certain, and change could be just around the corner.