From the moment Zinedine “Zizou” Zidane hung up his boots, many fans have asked: does Zidane still coach? For now, the answer is no—but that’s far, why he hasn’t returned yet, and what the future might hold for one of football’s greatest minds.
Zidane’s coaching journey: from Real Madrid to hiatus
Zidane began his managerial ascent via Real Madrid’s youth and reserve setup, notably coaching Real Madrid Castilla before becoming first-team coach in 2016. During his first spell, he led Los Blancos to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles (2016, 2017, 2018).
He resigned in 2018, only to return in 2019—then left again in 2021 after a second tenure that saw domestic success but mixed European results.
Since May 2021, he has not held a coaching role.
That gap—over 4 years now—has fueled speculation. Several media outlets note that Zidane went 1,306 days without managing a team as of late 2024.
Why did Zidane step away—and why has he stayed away?
Walking away. Reports suggest multiple reasons for Zidane’s hiatus:
- Desire for the right project: Zidane reportedly declined lucrative offers, preferring not to rush back unless conditions aligned with his vision.
- Search for control and trust: In interviews and statements, he has hinted at frustrations with internal support structures at clubs—a desire to lead not just the pitch but the environment too.
- Waiting on the France job: The French national team has been cited repeatedly as his dream role. Zidane has allegedly set his sights on succeeding Didier Deschamps.
- Personal balance and legacy: After intense years of managing superstars, trophies, pressure, and scrutiny, a pause offered space to reflect, refine, and maybe recharge.
The 2025 rumor mill: Is a return imminent?
Although Zidane isn’t coaching right now, signs suggest his return could come—and possibly very soon.
The France national team opening
Didier Deschamps already confirmed he will leave his role as France coach after the 2026 World Cup. Based on. Many believe an agreement is already in place for Zidane to take over Les Bleus post-2026.
Club offers turned down
Over recent seasons, Zidane has reportedly rejected several offers from top clubs—PSG, Manchester United, even a massive deal from a Saudi club—while holding out hope for France.
Tactical and observational mode
Some media outlets say Zidane has spent his time away. He hasn’t vanished—he’s just preparing.
What “does Zidane still coach” means today
As of October 2025:
- No, Zidane does not currently hold a coaching role.
- But he remains an active presence in football discourse, training his mind, assessing jobs, and positioning himself for the next big step.
- The most plausible next move is taking charge of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup.
So the question in full is less “does Zidane still coach?” and more “when will he coach again—and where?”
What a Zidane comeback would mean
The potential return of Zidane would shake up the football landscape:
- France’s next era: Replacing Deschamps with a legend offers continuity and forceful identity—Zidane knows French football inside out.
- Club temptation remains: Even if France is the logical path, top clubs will always court him; could we see a club-level return after 2026?
- Legacy and pressure: Expectations would be sky-high. Zidane’s legacy is sealed already, but failure at a new post would invite scrutiny.
Fans and pundits will watch the next 12–18 months closely.
Final Thoughts
Does Zidane still coach? Not right now—but the silence is strategic, not surrender.
Zidane’s coaching record is legendary, and he remains one of the most sought-after minds in football. As Didier Deschamps prepares to step down, Zidane appears primed to step back into the spotlight—likely as France’s next coach.
If you want updates on Zidane’s next move, squad rumors, or coaching shifts across Europe, keep visiting AvigGoal.
