Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the owner of Manchester United, is reportedly eyeing Zinedine Zidane as a potential replacement if Erik ten Hag is let go by the club.
Following INEOS’s acquisition of a 27.7 percent stake in Manchester United, significant changes have already been initiated at Old Trafford.
The uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s future at the club has intensified since the team’s 2-1 home defeat to Fulham on Saturday, sparking rumors of his potential dismissal.
As Ten Hag approaches the final year of his contract at Old Trafford this summer, his future with the club remains uncertain.
Ratcliffe is reportedly undecided about retaining Ten Hag at Old Trafford following a disappointing season, as per MEN Sport.
Amidst this uncertainty, Roberto De Zerbi, Brighton’s manager, has emerged as a potential replacement being considered by United.
However, there is a prevailing aspiration within the club to secure Zidane’s services, whom Foot Mercato describes as the “dream” addition.
The former French international, who departed Real Madrid in 2021, has been linked with several elite clubs across Europe. Jean-Claude Blanc, the current CEO of Ineos, has previously expressed interest in bringing Zidane to Paris Saint-Germain.
Zidane’s potential appointment at Old Trafford has been a recurring topic, with speculation intensifying during previous managerial transitions, including Ralf Rangnick’s interim tenure in 2021.
Despite the ongoing rumors, Zidane’s proficiency in English has been cited as a potential hurdle. In the past, he expressed reservations about managing in the Premier League due to his language limitations.
During the summer of 2022, Zidane addressed the prospect of joining Manchester United, acknowledging his English proficiency but emphasizing the importance of communication in coaching.
He emphasized the need for various factors to align to achieve success, highlighting the intricate dynamics involved in winning at the highest level.
The potential recruitment of Zinedine Zidane represents a significant aspiration for Manchester United as they contemplate managerial changes amidst a period of uncertainty regarding Erik ten Hag’s future at the club.
