A remarkable comeback for Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid could occur if internal disagreements persist under Xabi Alonso’s management.
Real Madrid currently hold a three-point lead over Barcelona in La Liga and have emerged victorious in three of their initial four Champions League encounters.
For the vast majority of football clubs globally, this scenario would represent an ideal situation. However, it’s been suggested that Alonso has faced challenges in gaining full support from the team at the Bernabeu. Speculation arises that President Florentino Perez might soon be compelled to make a decision between supporting the players or the coach.
Zinedine Zidane possibly returning for a third managerial period at Real Madrid
While a significant portion has embraced Alonso’s strategic approach, reports indicate resistance, notably from Vinicius Jr, who has reportedly displayed multiple instances of dissatisfaction towards the manager in the season’s early stages.
According to reports from the Spanish source Fichajes, factions within the Real Madrid locker room express concerns regarding ‘strategic and interpersonal conflicts,’ implying the necessity for ‘a swift adjustment in direction’ should conditions fail to improve.
These circumstances have prompted speculation about Zinedine Zidane potentially returning to manage Real Madrid for a third time.
During his tenure, the French manager oversaw one of Real Madrid’s most successful periods, particularly in recent history. His initial term saw the team secure three consecutive Champions League titles, along with a La Liga title, two Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, and a Super Copa Espana.
After departing, he returned a year later, leading the team to another La Liga title before leaving again in 2021. He is positioned at no.36 in FourFourTwo‘s rankings of the all-time greatest managers.
Zidane has consistently suggested in recent years his intention to resume coaching, most notably indicating a potential return in October 2025. At the Festival dello Sport, he stated, “Without a doubt, I’ll coach again. It’s something that’s part of me.”
He further added, “One of my dreams is to coach the French national team. We’ll see when the time comes.” Diario AS suggests a pre-existing agreement for him to assume leadership of the national team following the 2026 World Cup, with Didier Deschamps expected to leave after the tournament.
According to Fichajes, Real Madrid invariably considers Zidane as a ‘contingency strategy’ due to his unifying influence across the organization. With past experience and success, he is perceived to comprehend the inherent demands associated with the role at the Bernabeu.
However, his recent expression of aspiration to manage the French national team, combined with reports indicating his likely appointment, may necessitate Real Madrid to act expeditiously to secure his commitment.
Given that he declined an offer from Liverpool in 2024, following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, to remain in Germany for an additional season, it is plausible that Alonso received assurances regarding his position within the club.
