Zinedine Zidane, a legendary figure in football, transitioned from an iconic playing career to a highly successful managerial role, most notably with Real Madrid, where he achieved unprecedented triumphs.
From Pitch Icon to Coaching Maestro
After retiring as one of the most celebrated players of his generation, Zinedine Zidane seamlessly transitioned into the world of football management. He began his coaching journey within the ranks of Real Madrid, the club where he spent his final playing years and achieved immense success.
His initial steps in management involved coaching Real Madrid Castilla, the club's reserve team. He dedicated two years to developing talent and honing his coaching philosophy in this role, building a foundation for his future endeavors.
Unprecedented Success at Real Madrid
In January 2016, Zidane was appointed manager of the Real Madrid first team. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary period for both the club and the Frenchman. In his initial three seasons at the helm of the senior squad, Zidane etched his name in history by becoming the first coach ever to win the UEFA Champions League three times in a row, a remarkable and unparalleled feat that solidified his status as one of football's elite managers.
His first stint as Real Madrid manager was marked by a string of significant trophies:
- UEFA Champions League: 2016, 2017, 2018
- La Liga: 2017
- UEFA Super Cup: 2016, 2017
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2016, 2017
Following this historic run, Zidane briefly stepped down in May 2018. However, he returned to manage Real Madrid for a second spell from March 2019 to May 2021. During this second tenure, he continued to add to his trophy cabinet, securing another La Liga title in 2020 and a Spanish Super Cup in 2020.
Managerial Career Overview
Below is a summary of Zinedine Zidane's primary managerial roles and key achievements:
| Role | Club | Period | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manager | Real Madrid Castilla | June 2014 – January 2016 | Managed the club's reserve team |
| Manager (1st Stint) | Real Madrid | January 2016 – May 2018 | 3x UEFA Champions League, 1x La Liga, 2x UEFA Super Cup, 2x FIFA Club World Cup |
| Manager (2nd Stint) | Real Madrid | March 2019 – May 2021 | 1x La Liga, 1x Spanish Super Cup |
Current Status and Enduring Legacy
Since his second departure from Real Madrid in May 2021, Zinedine Zidane has remained out of active management. Despite numerous links to top club and national team positions across Europe, he has chosen to take a break from the demanding world of football coaching.
Zidane's journey from an iconic playmaker to a record-breaking manager has cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern football history. His tactical acumen, leadership, and ability to inspire his players have earned him immense respect and admiration worldwide. His post-playing career has proven to be as impactful and memorable as his time on the pitch.
For more detailed information on Zinedine Zidane's career, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
