Zinedine Zidane Returns to Bernabeu

Coach Zinedine Zidane was spotted at the Bernabeu Stadium to watch the Champions League match between Real Madrid and Manchester City.

During the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final match between Real Madrid and Manchester City, alongside Federico Valverde's explosive performance, the presence of legends at Bernabeu also captured the attention of fans.

One of the most notable figures was Zinedine Zidane, former player and coach of Real Madrid. The French strategist did not appear ostentatiously but chose to quietly observe and support his former team. This was evident after the match concluded, as Zidane left the Bernabeu discreetly to avoid media attention.

Notably, Zidane's appearance occurred at a sensitive time, as Real Madrid still lacks an official head coach following Xabi Alonso's departure earlier this year. Although Alvaro Arbeloa is temporarily serving as head coach, President Florentino Perez and the club's leadership are actively seeking a suitable candidate to take the hot seat at Bernabeu.

In this context, Zidane is a viable option to consider. After parting ways with the club for the second time in 2021, the relationship between Zidane and Florentino Perez remains very positive. This enduring trust leads the Real Madrid president to believe that a future reunion is entirely possible.

From a professional perspective, this is also a reasonable choice for Real Madrid. Zidane has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to manage top stars, rotate a deep squad, and guide the team through high-pressure knockout matches. The Champions League titles he secured (2016, 2017, and 2018) continue to hold significant influence both in the locker room and among fans.

The biggest obstacle to Perez's plan lies in Zidane's career aspirations. The 1998 Ballon d'Or winner has long expressed a clear ambition to become the head coach of the French national team. His goal is the position currently held by Didier Deschamps.

Multiple sources indicate that Zidane is preparing for the moment Deschamps leaves after the 2026 World Cup. According to ESPN, the 1972-born coach has even secured a verbal agreement with the president of the French Football Federation, and has begun planning the formation of his coaching staff for the upcoming period.

For Real Madrid, the 3-0 victory over Manchester City gives "Los Blancos" a significant advantage ahead of the second leg next week. Currently, the entire team is focused on hosting Elche in La Liga's 28th round.