Zidane’s resignation came as a surprise. Now the big task of replacing him begins.
Zinedine Zidane stepped down as Real Madrid boss, five days after leading the team to a third straight Champions League title. Only two other managers have won three titles — Bob Paisley (also with Liverpool) and Carlo Ancelotti (AC Milan two, Real Madrid one).
Zidane told the press that “everything changes” and “that’s why I took this decision.” He claims the club needs “a different voice.”
Zidane, who took over after Rafael Benitez was sacked, was in charge for 149 games. He steered Real to 104 wins and 29 draws with a 69.8% win rate. He won nine trophies with the team.
So with big shoes to fill, who might be named Real’s next head man? Here are five managers that I think could fill the bill.
Maurizio Sarri: Sarri is still on Napoli’s payroll, but they have already appointed Carlo Ancelotti. The manager has a €8 million release clause that expires soon and I think it would be an epic move for Madrid to activate it. Even with limited resources at Napoli, Sarri challenged Juventus for the title. The team finished the season with 91 points.
Mauricio Pochettino (photo, IBTimesUK)
Mauricio Pochettino: Pochettino has been linked with Real Madrid for quite some time. He’s done a good job at Tottenham but yet has to secure a trophy there. Knowing that Pochettino can deliver results if he’s given the right resources, Madrid might hand him a chance at Bernabeu. The fact that he recently signed a new contract with Tottenham doesn’t mean anything in modern-day football.
Arsene Wenger: Real Madrid have been chasing Wenger for years. And this might be the right time for both parties, especially since Wenger just left Arsenal after 22 years with the club. But would this appointment be a gamble? I don’t think so.
Antonio Conte (photo, Evening Standard)
Antonio Conte: Conte’s future at Chelsea is in doubt. The board and fans aren’t happy with him and there’s a good chance that he’ll be replaced this summer. But make no mistake about one thing: the Italian is a brilliant coach who can do amazing things if backed properly. Real Madrid have the players he needs and the team isn’t shy about adding to club riches.
Luis Enrique: Enrique’s style of football would be apt for Madrid, but his appointment would send shock waves in Catalonia. That’s because Barcelona replaced him last summer with Ernesto Valverde. But Enrique has all the capabilities to guide Real Madrid to La Liga triumphs. His Champions League record might get in the way, though.
