Zinedine Zidane’s absence. Why Zidane not coaching anymore is more than just a keyword—it’s a question about legacy, choice, burnout, and ambition. In this article, AnaGoal will accompany you to explore the full story: what led “Zizou” to step away, what he’s said about returning, and what the future may hold.
Zidane’s Coaching Legacy: The Before
Zinedine Zidane’s tenure as a manager was nothing short of miraculous. He first took over Real Madrid in 2016, and across his two spells (2016–2018 and 2019–2021), he accumulated an astonishing trophy haul:
- 3 consecutive UEFA Champions League titles
- 2 La Liga titles
- Spanish Su, he hasn’t returned to full-time coaching.
His decision surprised many: a coach at the top of his game, still relatively young by managerial standards, vanishing. The question then became: why Zidane not coaching anymore?
The Reasons Behind the Hiatus
Zidane’s break from coaching isn’t simply about layoffs or lack of offers. Multiple factors have converged to keep him away. Below we explore the main reasons that have emerged.
1. A desire for family and personal time
In interviews, Zidane has repeatedly expressed the importance of his life beyond the field. He said that he is “enjoying spending time with my family,” indicating that after years of intense pressure, he wants to reclaim space for personal life. This break isn’t necessarily permanent—he has called his coaching status a question still open—but it is a deliberate pause.
The life of a top-level manager is relentless: travel, constant scrutiny, media, and tactical stress. For someone who has already achieved so much, a period of respite carries its own appeal.
2. Being selective—holding out for the right project
Zid hasn’t taken the first tempting offer. He has rejected high-profile proposals, including reported lucrative deals in Saudi Arabia exceeding €100 million, and overtures. He appears to be waiting for the “right fit” instead of chasing any role.
This selectivity suggests he sees himself as a manager who must lead, or national team might materialize—but he’s not settled.
3. Communication and language challenges
One concrete reason Zidane has cited is the language barrier, especially relating to the English-speaking world. He has openly stated he understands English but doesn’t feel fully fluent and comfortable enough to communicate effectively with players in the Premier League. That constraint makes leap to England less attractive.
Strong communication is central to his managerial style, so being less than fully confident in a language would ham.
4. Focusing ambition toward France
Reports in recent years have increasingly suggested that Zidane’s coaching return is being reserved for the French national team. As Didier Deschamps has indicated he will step down after the 2026 World Cup, many see Zidane as the logical successor. einsports.com])
Rather than jumping back into club football anywhere, he may be orchestrating a return on his own terms—leading Les Bleus. Some sources describe him as preparing in silence for that role.
5. Burnout and the weight of expectations
At the top level, expectations for Zidane would always be sky-high. Every season would demand silverware. After already delivering at elite levels, perhaps stepping away was a way to reset. In past comments he has admitted that he sometimes “misses the routine” of coaching—but also notes how intense it is. eIN SPORTS])
Walking away at a high point can preserve a legend’s aura. Instead of fading.
What Zidane Has Said: His Own Words
Zidane hasn’t stayed silent. Over time, he has shared glimpses of his mindset:
- “As long as I remain a coach, this question remains open.” — expressing that a return is not ruled out.
- He rejected joining Manchester United or coaching in England, citing language and communication fears.
- He has admitted he “misses the routine” but also values the break.
- He’s expressed that leading France would be “a dream” and that he feels “ready” and “qualified.”
These statements show nuance: he isn’t fearful of returning, but is cautious about when and where.
Emerging Signals of a Return
While he remains without a club job, there are growing signs that Zidane is aligning his return carefully.
- Media reports suggest he is being lined up as the next manager of France after the 2026 World Cup.
- Some outlets claim announcements are “very close.”
- Despite offers, including, he has reportedly declined deals beyond €100 million, reinforcing his selectivity.
- He remains a “dream target” for big European clubs, especially in Serie A,. otball España])
If Zidane returns, it likely won’t be at just any club—but for a storied role where he can shape a legacy rather than chase trophies alone.
Why the Question Resonates: Impact on Football
The question why Zidane not coaching anymore captivates because it is about more than absence—it’s about image, ambition, identity, and timing.
- His disappearance. Post-Zidane, the next generation of managers often gets compared to his ease, charisma, tactical feel, and management of star players.
- His stance brings intrigue: unlike some coaches who crash and burn chasing every job, Zidane sits back, choosing when to reemerge.
- The speculation surrounding France, Real Madrid, or other clubs continues to fuel fan conversation and speculation.
Because of his status, any hint of return becomes a headline. His choices influence narratives about modern coaching careers and how much power an iconic manager can still wield—even while off duty.
Final Thoughts
Why Zidane not coaching anymore is a question rooted in respect, strategy, and legacy. He isn’t gone out of failure; rather, he seems deliberately withdrawn, gauging when and how to return. He is selective, protective of his reputation, mindful of communication limitations, and fixated on doing it on his own terms.
In the meantime, football watchers speculate, insiders buzz, and fans dream. As the timeline nears 2026 and the French job looms, the day may come when Zizou steps forward again—reinvented, refreshed, and ready to write his next coaching chapter.
If you want, AnaGoal can also publish a timeline of Zidane’s coaching offers, or compare his hiatus to other elite managers. Let me know and I’ll set it up.
