Zinedine Zidane is reportedly set to take over as the manager of Newcastle United with the blessing of the club’s owners. Widely regarded as one of the premier football managers at present, Zidane’s tenure at Newcastle might be short-lived, as rumors swirl about a potential move to manage Marseille. The speculation stems from an alleged agreement between Zidane and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), who are not only prospective owners of Newcastle United but also eyeing a purchase of Marseille.
The French news outlet, France Bleu Provence, has reported on this theoretical agreement between Zidane and PIF. It stipulates that Zidane would assume the managerial role at his childhood club, Marseille, if PIF successfully acquires the Ligue 1 team. However, the current owner of Marseille, Frank McCourt, seems reluctant to sell, even though the Saudis are eager to make an enticing proposal.
The PIF’s interest in acquiring Marseille is strategic, considering the club’s prestigious status in French football. Moreover, it would position them in a direct rivalry with Qatar, who presently controls Paris Saint-Germain.
Zidane, after departing from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021, has been in search of a managerial position. He was linked to roles at Manchester United and the France national team, but none materialized, leaving the iconic Frenchman without a managerial role.
Throughout his managerial career, Zidane achieved remarkable success, securing two La Liga championships and three Champions League victories during his tenure with Real Madrid. However, the prospect of leading Marseille holds a special allure for Zidane, providing an opportunity to clinch silverware with the team he once played for in his youth.
