After taking a few days to consider his future, Zinedine Zidane (48) announced his resignation as Real Madrid coach effective immediately on Thursday morning. In a statement, Real Madrid addressed the situation citing: "It's time now to respect his decision and show our appreciation for his professionalism, dedication and passion for all these years, and for what he represents for Real Madrid... He knows that Real Madrid is and always will be his home."
Anyone who says Zinedine Zidane's time at Real Madrid was not a success is the world's biggest cynic. Zidane, with little coaching experience but a big name in world soccer, took over in 2016- 2018, and again in 2019 - 2021. In total Zidane won 11 championships at Real Madrid as coach, including three Champions League titles.
Despite that, Zidane would often be on the hot seat when Real Madrid had moments where the club was not performing, nonetheless he still had a 60% winning percentage at the club in his second stint. Now with Zidane moving on here are three names that according to ESPN could step in to fill the void left behind by Zizou.
Mauricio Pochettino
The Argentine coach is currently at PSG, but in recent hours has been linked to both the Real Madrid job and a dramatic return to Tottenham. Pochettino has only recently took over PSG and it would be strange for the club to let him go so quickly.
Antonio Conte
Let’s be frank, Antonio Conte is on every big club's list if they need to fill a coaching position. Antonio Conte has a big team resume having coached Italy, Chelsea, and Juventus. He is also on the short list of candidates for the Barcelona job if Ronald Koeman is let go, which would set up an interesting “war” between the Spanish rivals.
Raúl
Sources in Spain continue to mention legendary striker Raúl as the man who will take over Real Madrid. Just like Zidane, Raúl has been coaching the club’s youth divisions and could step in to guide the team next season.
