Manchester, GB – 17 January 2026 – The managerial merry-go-round at Old Trafford continues to spin, but while Manchester United navigates a period of interim leadership, one of the biggest names in world football, Zinedine Zidane, appears to be making concrete moves towards a return to the dugout.
Zidane, the legendary French maestro, has been out of high-profile management since his second departure from Real Madrid in 2021. However, fresh reports suggest the 53-year-old is actively preparing for his next chapter, even as his name remains frequently linked with the vacant hot seat at Manchester United.
Zidane Readies Coaching Contingent
According to reports emerging from France, Zidane is not waiting for an offer to materialize before structuring his backroom team. The Daily Star understands that the World Cup winner has been in discussions to finalize his coaching staff, signalling a serious intent to take on a new challenge soon.
The primary focus of Zidane’s immediate ambition appears to be the French national team. Long considered the heir apparent to Didier Deschamps, sources indicate that Zidane has been quietly engaging in discussions with the French Football Federation regarding the national job, which is set to become vacant following the 2026 World Cup this summer.
The French Dream and Real Madrid Legacy
While the lure of managing his home nation is potent, Zidane’s decorated history at the Bernabéu ensures his name will always be prominent in club football discussions. His tenure at Real Madrid, marked by three consecutive Champions League titles, makes him an elite commodity.
Crucially, the reported assembly of his staff suggests a readiness to step in immediately, whether for the national side or a top European club. Former Real Madrid assistant David Bettoni is widely expected to be part of this new setup, bringing continuity from Zidane’s highly successful past.
Manchester United's Managerial Maze
The situation at Manchester United remains fluid following the dramatic sacking of Ruben Amorim last week. Amorim’s 14-month tenure ended abruptly amid a string of disappointing performances and a public fallout with Director of Football Jason Wilcox, creating significant instability at Old Trafford.
In the immediate aftermath, former United midfielder Michael Carrick has stepped up as the interim head coach, tasked with steering the side for the remainder of the season. Carrick is scheduled to lead his first match in charge today, a high-stakes derby clash against Manchester City at the Theatre of Dreams.
Zidane has long been touted as a dream candidate by sections of the United fanbase, given his pedigree in winning major trophies. However, the club’s immediate focus is stabilizing the team under Carrick while assessing long-term options.
The Contenders for the Old Trafford Throne
The list of potential permanent successors to Amorim has been extensive, featuring high-profile names. Alongside Zidane, Oliver Glasner, Carrick himself, and Gareth Southgate have all been heavily featured in betting odds.
A significant development in the race occurred recently when Oliver Glasner announced his intention to leave Crystal Palace at the conclusion of the current campaign. Glasner, who delivered FA Cup glory to the Eagles last season, confirmed months ago that he would not be extending his stay at Selhurst Park, positioning him as a highly sought-after manager for the 2026/27 season.
This confirmation intensifies the competition for top managerial roles across the Premier League, potentially accelerating the timeline for clubs like Manchester United to make their final decisions. Whether United opts for a manager with established Premier League experience or rolls the dice on an international superstar like Zidane remains the central question hanging over the club.
For now, the focus shifts to Carrick’s first test against City, while Zidane reportedly finalizes the team he hopes will lead him back to the pinnacle of world football, whether that is in Paris or elsewhere.
