Former Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has provided a candid glimpse into the coaching approach of Zinedine Zidane, as speculation intensifies linking the French football icon with the vacant managerial role at Manchester United. Bale, who played under Zidane during a trophy-laden spell at the Santiago Bernabeu, described the manager's methods in a recent podcast appearance, shedding light on what a potential United appointment might entail.
Zidane's Coaching Philosophy Revealed
In an interview on the Stick to Football podcast, Bale offered a straightforward assessment of Zidane's training sessions, noting that the legendary midfielder turned coach favoured a minimalist tactical approach. "Zidane as a coach? Honestly, he didn't do much," Bale revealed. "We'd go over some tactics before matches against top teams like Barcelona or Bayern Munich—maybe fifteen minutes of defensive work. Beyond that, it was mostly possession games, shooting drills, and then we'd head home."
Despite this seemingly relaxed style, Bale emphasised that Zidane commanded immense respect from the squad due to his unparalleled playing career. "He earned respect thanks to his qualities as a player," Bale explained. "He participated actively in training sessions, and he even beat me a few times—he's still in fantastic physical shape."
Manchester United's Managerial Situation
The insights from Bale come at a time when Zidane is frequently mentioned as a potential candidate for the permanent managerial position at Manchester United. Since departing Real Madrid in 2021, Zidane has been without a coaching role, with United and the French national team consistently cited as possible destinations for his return to management.
Currently, Michael Carrick is serving as interim manager at Old Trafford until the end of the season, having taken over in January. Under Carrick's guidance, United have enjoyed a strong run of form, securing six victories in seven Premier League fixtures and collecting nineteen points from a possible twenty-one. This surge has propelled the club to third place in the standings, though a recent loss to Newcastle has tempered momentum.
While Carrick could be considered for the permanent role if he maintains this impressive performance, other contenders like Zidane remain firmly in the frame for a summer appointment. The Frenchman's pedigree, including three Champions League titles as Real Madrid manager, makes him an attractive prospect for the Red Devils.
Bale and Zidane's Shared Success
Gareth Bale's experience under Zidane was marked by significant silverware, with the Welsh forward winning five Champions League trophies during his time at Real Madrid—three of which came under Zidane's stewardship. This successful partnership highlights Zidane's ability to manage star-studded squads and deliver on the biggest stages, a quality that Manchester United's hierarchy may value highly.
As United prepare to resume their Premier League campaign with a home fixture against Aston Villa next weekend, followed by a trip to Bournemouth on March 22nd, the speculation surrounding Zidane's future is likely to persist. The club will not play again until April 13th, when they host rivals Leeds United at Old Trafford, providing a break that could allow for managerial discussions to advance.
Bale's revelations offer a unique perspective on what a Zidane-led Manchester United might look like, blending a hands-off training regimen with the gravitas of a football legend. Whether this approach would translate to success in the Premier League remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing narrative at Old Trafford.
