Manchester United risk missing out on Zinedine Zidane as Saudi Arabia circles | OneFootball

Manchester United could be on the verge of missing out on Zinedine Zidane, with the iconic French manager reportedly being pursued by the Saudi Arabian national team.

As Erik ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford hangs by a thread after a dismal start to the 2024/25 season, the Red Devils may need to act swiftly to secure Zidane’s coveted signature.

Ten Hag’s second season in charge has been anything but smooth.

United are currently 12th in the Premier League after eight games, having secured only three wins and suffering heavy defeats, including two 3-0 losses to Liverpool and Tottenham.

With just 11 points so far, Ten Hag’s position is under intense scrutiny, especially following last season’s eighth-place finish—the club’s worst in the Premier League era.

Despite being handed a contract extension in the summer, Ten Hag’s future looks increasingly uncertain.

Zidane, who hasn’t managed since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, remains one of football’s most sought-after tacticians, known for leading Los Blancos to three consecutive Champions League titles.

He’s been linked with United in the past, and in 2022, he left the door open when asked about a potential move to England, saying, “Never say never.”

However, according to Calciomercato (via The Manchester Evening News), the Saudis are now eyeing Zidane as they reportedly look to replace Roberto Mancini, who has had a turbulent stint with the Saudi Arabian national team.

Zidane is said to be a “dream” target for the Middle Eastern nation, and with Mancini’s tenure possibly nearing its end, United could face stiff competition from the riches of Saudi football.

United’s interest in Zidane isn’t new, but one sticking point has always been his lack of fluency in English.

Despite this, he’s expressed an openness to the Premier League—if the conditions are right for him to succeed.

“If I go back to a club, it is to win,” Zidane said in a previous interview, signaling his ambition.