3 possible destinations for Zinedine Zidane
The perpetual motion of Zinedine Zidane has always been unfathomable for mere mortals. He was impossible to read on the pitch during his playing days and even now, his decisions off the pitch baffle many.
The whole world, and Florentino Perez in particular, was stunned when Zidane announced his resignation earlier this year.
Although Real Madrid have a nasty habit of frequently changing their coach, often through cruel dismissals, Zidane was not like any other manager. He came into the club when Rafa Benitez was sacked and the club was not in its usual state, as the players were looking to save face after a horrendous start to the season.
But Zidane came in and won three consecutive UEFA Champions League trophies in his three seasons, along with one La Liga title. He made history with the club with his unprecedented success in Europe, and it came as a shock when he called a press conference one day to confirm his resignation.
Real Madrid are undoubtedly still struggling to regain their dominance after the departures of Zidane and their talisman, Cristiano Ronaldo. According to his agent, Zidane will take a one year break but he will return to his managerial career soon enough - presumably with many of the heavyweights of Europe gunning for his signature.
Let us evaluate the three likely clubs that Zidane could manage in the future.
#1 Manchester United
The strongest rumor according to many trusted news outlets is that Zidane will head to Manchester. Manchester United are currently languishing in eighth position in the Premier League with Jose Mourinho at the helm.
Although they managed a victory over Juventus in the Champions League, the fact remains that United's performances are not getting any better. They are 12 points away from league leaders Manchester City, and the same number of points away from relegation zone.
With their only realistic fight in the Premier League being their chase for a top four spot, it is unclear whether Mourinho will stay on as their coach beyond this season. Zidane would be perfectly poised to take up the role if Mourinho does get sacked.