Famous footballing icons who have moved into coaching

There are two types of football coaches: ex-playerswho have learned the game on the field, and individuals who learned it in coaching courses.It has beenan article of faith for years that only someone who hasplayed professional soccer himself will knowhow to manage a team. Players who had been leaders on the field areparticularly favored. However, while someone like Paolo di Canio lasted only 13 matches in charge of Sunderland, Pep Guardiolas managerial career has already far eclipsed his playing days, which were pretty good as well.This is a look at some former players who have made the jump into coaching recently. Only time can tell whether they go the Di Canio way or the Guardiola way.

#1 Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid Castilla)

Zidane will oversee the development of what has been dubbed a golden generation of youth talent at the Real Madrid B team. Zidane was set to join Bordeaux as first-team coach, but the move broke down when the budget restrictions at the French club came to light. Real authorities wanted to retain his services, and acknowledging his full-time coaching ambitions, offered him this job.

Jose Mourinho had insisted in 2010 that Zidane work more closely with the senior team, and he was appointed as assistant to Carlo Ancelotti last season. Therefore, he already has hands-on experience of handling a top class team, with all the baggage that comes with a dressing room consisting of several superstars. The 42 year old played for Real Madrid from 2001 to 2006, and has been involved with the club in administrative capacities from November 2010. Commanding respect should come easily to Zidane.

His most important signing in this transfer window has been 23 year old forward Eero Markkanen, a Finnish international. He shall also have his own son Enzo Fernandez in his team. Last year, on being asked about his coaching ambitions, Zidane had said, "I'm just going along my way, I'm learning. I'm in contact with people who are important in football. It's a good experience.”