Where Did Zidane and Real Madrid Go Wrong and What’s Next?

It all started on January 20, 2021, when Real Madrid was knocked out of the Copa del Rey by CD Alcoyano, a Segunda B team. The score was 2-1. No one was happy. Not just the fans, but management was furious as well. This marked the beginning of a series of events that led to the controversial firing of Zinedine Zidane.

The Turning Point

Then, during the Champions League knockout stage, Real Madrid barely managed a 1-0 win against Atalanta despite having a man advantage for 75 minutes. Real Madrid was now facing an early exit if Atalanta could manage a 2-0 win in the second leg. Many analysts picked Atalanta to progress to the next round.

News leaked that Zidane would be fired if Real Madrid did not reach the group stage in the Champions League. Zidane, however, blamed the management for the leak. This only added to the growing tension between the club and its most celebrated coach.

Zidane's Decision to Leave

Zinedine Zidane's decision to leave Real Madrid surprised almost no one. After all, he had done it before. As a player in 2006 and as a manager in 2018, he walked away from the club with no fuss and with no interest in negotiating a payoff. His decision this time was no different.

Zidane stated, 'I feel the club is no longer giving me the trust I need. It isn't offering me the support to build something in the medium to long term... I would have liked my relationship with the club and the president in recent months to have been a little different than that of other coaches.'

Zidane's options to operate at a similar level – coaching the best of the best – are now limited. Only two jobs really make sense for him: Juventus, which has just opted for Max Allegri, and the France national team. It remains to be seen if or when he'll try his hand in either role again.

The Impact on Real Madrid

Zidane's departure marked a significant turning point for Real Madrid. The team had struggled to maintain its dominance in both domestic and international competitions. This loss of stability could have lasting effects on the club's morale and performance.

The fans, long accustomed to the success and leadership of Zidane, were left shaken. The question on everyone's mind was, 'What’s next for Real Madrid without Zidane?' The search for a new manager and the rebuilding of squad morale are now crucial for the club.

Real Madrid faces tough challenges as it looks to regain its status as one of the top clubs in world football. The road ahead requires not only tactical brilliance but also the ability to build a cohesive team culture that aligns with the club's long-term vision.

What’s Next for Real Madrid?

With the vacancy in the manager's position, the club must carefully consider their options. Finding a new manager who can bridge the gap and provide the necessary trust and support is crucial. The club must also reassess its player strategy to ensure that they have the right mix of experienced and young talent to compete at the highest level.

Moreover, addressing the management's support of the coaching staff and the players is vital. A strong support system can help the team regain its confidence and perform better on the field.

Real Madrid's future is in the hands of the new management. The club needs to focus on building a team that is not only talented but also united. This will require a strong foundation of trust, effective communication, and a clear long-term vision.

The road ahead is challenging, but with the right strategies and leadership, Real Madrid can once again become a dominant force in world football. The journey to recovery starts now, and the key lies in how the club responds to the changing dynamics in the football world.

Keywords: Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid, Champions League