Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane is expected to return to football in 2025.
The French coach has not managed any team since his departure from his second tenure at the Spanish club in April 2021. Despite his prolonged absence from the dugout, Zidane’s reputation remains high, thanks to his extraordinary spell at Los Blancos.
The former midfielder led the club to two La Liga titles and three consecutive Champions League trophies—an unprecedented achievement that has yet to be repeated.
However, his return is not straightforward, as Zidane could receive an offer to manage a club before an opportunity arises with the French national team.
According to reports from the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, one of his former clubs, Juventus, is interested in reuniting with Zidane, considering the potential dismissal of Thiago Motta.
Motta joined La Vecchia Signora after an outstanding 2023/24 season with Bologna, where he guided the club to its first-ever Champions League qualification. However, he is now under pressure following an inconsistent season with Juventus, as the team fights for a top-four finish.
The report highlights that Zidane is not the only candidate being considered, with Igor Tudor and Roberto Mancini also on the shortlist. However, he remains the dream choice for some board members should Motta depart.
Zidane is not expected to make a decision until the summer when he will speak with the French Football Federation after the Nations League final—if France qualifies.
