Key Factor: Zinedine Zidane explains why he won’t join Manchester United

Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has revealed why he won’t consider joining Manchester United despite being linked with the Premier League side.

Manchester United is currently managed by Erik ten Hag but the club have been under intense criticism since the Dutch tactician took over. Zidane who has been without a job since 2021 has continued to be linked with United as many believe he’ll replace Ten Hag.

However, Zidane whose only job experience is with Real Madrid has revealed he is reluctant to join Premier League club because of the language barrier.

Zidane, in an interview with L’Equipe, expressed that while he understands English, he doesn’t feel proficient enough to manage effectively in an English-speaking environment.

According to the former France international, communication is key to success, and he prefers to work in an environment where he can fully engage with the team without language limitations.

The 52-year-old said: ‘Would I want to go to Manchester [United]? I understand English, but I’m not completely fluent in it. I know that there are coaches who go to clubs without speaking the language, but I work in a different way.

He went on to add: ‘Many elements come into play in order to win, it is a global context. I know what I need to win.’

However, Zidane noted that he would return to management if the right opportunity arises, though it remains unlikely that Manchester United will be that destination.

Zinedine Zidane during the La Liga Santander match between Real Madrid v Osasuna (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Zidane began his coaching adventure with Real Madrid Castilla, the reserve team of Real Madrid, in 2014. In January 2016, he replaced Rafa Benitez as Madrid’s first team coach.

His first season saw him win the 2015-16 Champions League, Zidane then guided Madrid to two more consecutive Champions League victories in 2017 and 2018.

Zidane also led Real Madrid to domestic triumphs. He won LaLiga in the 2016-17 season, he alsoCups won two FIFA Club World Cup titles and two UEFA Super Cups.

He left the club in 2018 but returned in 2019. During his second stint, Zidane achieved further success, leading Real Madrid to the 2020 La Liga title.

In May 2021, Zidane left Real Madrid for the second time, this time citing frustration with the lack of support and clear direction from the club’s hierarchy.