Zinedine Zidane returned to the Santiago Bernabéu on a Champions League night, sparking rumors he's preparing to take over the France national team.
What happened at the Bernabéu?
The French coach was spotted in the stands during the clash between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, a presence that did not go unnoticed by cameras, fans, and media.
His visit to the Bernabéu could be part of his process to take over France, with several French internationals in action, including Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga for Madrid.
A night of scouting for Zidane
The match provided the perfect stage for Zidane to scout potential pillars of the next Les Bleus cycle, with Mbappé standing out as a central figure after scoring the goal that keeps Real Madrid alive in the tie.
Zidane has turned down multiple offers since leaving Real Madrid in December 2021, including top clubs like Chelsea and lucrative projects in Saudi Arabia.
Zidane's coaching ambitions
According to reports, Zidane has only two destinations in mind: Real Madrid or the France national team, with his résumé speaking for itself, having won 11 trophies with Madrid, including Champions League titles, LaLiga, and the Spanish Super Cup.
The result of the match left a bitter taste for Real Madrid, who fell 2-1 to Bayern Munich in the first leg of the quarterfinals, but Zidane's presence took center stage.
What comes next for Zidane and France?
As Madrid fights to stay alive in the Champions League, Zidane seems to be taking the first steps toward his next major challenge, with all signs pointing to that challenge being France, and Mbappé likely to be a key player in his future project.
Zidane's winning mentality, dressing room management, and deep connection to French football make him the natural choice to lead the national team.
The French coach's visit to the Bernabéu was a statement that shakes the European football landscape and fuels speculation about his future.
Zidane's presence at the Bernabéu was more than symbolic, and his eyes were likely on the French players in action, including Dayot Upamecano and Michael Olise for Bayern.
The France national team job is a coveted position, and Zidane's interest in it is no surprise, given his experience and success with Real Madrid.
As the rumors continue to swirl, one thing is certain: Zidane's next move will be closely watched by the football world.