Following Julian Nagelsmann’s contract extension with the German national team and his decision to reject a return to Bayern Munich, BD Cricket reports that French legend Zinedine Zidane quickly emerged as a potential candidate for the Bavarian giants. However, Manchester United have also entered the frame, and sources suggest Zidane would rather manage the Red Devils than take charge at Bayern. Recent developments indicate that Zidane is closely monitoring Erik ten Hag’s uncertain position at Old Trafford, even though some outlets claim he is on the verge of finalizing a deal with Bayern.

While talks of Zidane joining Bayern appear to be nearing completion—with only contractual details left to settle—he is said to have demanded certain guarantees in the transfer market. Yet conflicting reports claim that no formal contact has been made between the two parties. In truth, Zidane has a reputation for emotional highs and lows, often creating dramatic twists in his career path. Although he is on Bayern’s shortlist, he ranks behind Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi, while Ralf Rangnick and Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeneß are also under consideration.

Despite Zidane’s agent, Alain Migliaccio, having close ties with Bayern honorary president Uli Hoeneß, and despite Bayern offering a more structured path to trophies, the Frenchman reportedly has reservations about relocating to Bavaria and managing in German, a language he does not speak fluently. BD Cricket matchday reporters believe this linguistic and cultural gap could open the door for Manchester United—especially since Zidane’s English, while not fluent, is slightly better than his German.

Zidane has previously admitted that language barriers would pose a challenge should he move to the Premier League. Back when Ole Gunnar Solskjær departed United, Zidane was also linked to the job but ultimately declined. For years, many believed his ultimate goal was to coach the French national team. However, that seat remains firmly occupied by Didier Deschamps, who is under contract through 2026. Still, should France underperform at this summer’s European Championship, a managerial change could reopen the door for Zidane.

Many observers remain skeptical about Zidane’s willingness to join United. He is notoriously selective, having only ever managed Real Madrid—twice—and declining numerous other offers. While United’s new co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, brings hopes of greater professionalism and direction, the actual outcome remains up in the air. For Zidane, who values control and stability, United’s current state may not align with his ambitions.

Former teammate Thomas Gravesen once said that Zidane would only consider three clubs: Real Madrid, the French national team, and his childhood favorite, Olympique de Marseille. BD Cricket’s editorial team agrees—suggesting that both United and Bayern may be “too messy and murky” for a coach as meticulous and legacy-driven as Zidane. While speculation continues to swirl, one thing is clear: Zidane isn’t the type to dive into rough waters unless he’s sure he can swim with purpose.