Real Madrid is undoubtedly one of the all time best clubs in Europe, having won the UEFA Champions league title for a record 13 times from its inception in 1955/1956 season. They have also won the Spanish La Liga 34 times, with close rivals, Barcelona FC following with 26 La Liga trophies. They have also won several other national and international club trophies.
The 2020/2021 football season however was not a really good one for some of Europe's best soccer teams. For example, Barcelona FC finished 3rd on the Spanish league, and crashed out of the UCL at the round of 16. Liverpool, who also have been UCL strong contenders in recent seasons could not find their footings this season. Real Madrid likewise had their share of shortcomings.
The Spanish giants finished second in La Liga, just two points behind Athletico Madrid. They also were shown the way out of the Champions League after losing 3-1 on aggregates to Chelsea in the semi finals of the competition. They also crashed out of the Copa Del Rey after Alcoyano beat them 2-1. They eventually finished the season without a trophy, this, which last happened 11 years ago.
Personally, I would have thought Zidane will take this season as a challenge, and a drive to help the team greatly improve next season, especially as the club management show no interest in letting him go. Perhaps he has other plans that just coincide with this period.
According to the club's official statement, Zidane decided to bring an end to his current spell as Madrid's coach. It reads further that “...we must now respect his decision and express our gratitude for his professionalism, dedication and passion over the years and what he means to Real Madrid.”
“Zidane is one of Real Madrid’s great icons and his legacy extends beyond what he has achieved as a coach and player at our club,” Madrid said. “He is aware that he has a place in the hearts of the Real Madrid fans and that he will always have a home at Real Madrid.”
The first time Zidane quit his Real Madrid manager job in 2018, his reason was that it was time for a change and that he didn’t see it clearly that the club would keep winning with him in charge. Probably he has seen the reality of this playing out, and has decided to move on. What do you think his next move is likely to be?
