In a surprising turn of events, reports suggest that Zinedine Zidane could return to Real Madrid, but only if certain conditions are met.

According to Real Madrid Confidencial, Zidane has outlined specific demands that would need to be fulfilled for him to take charge of the team for a third spell.

Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, is focused on ensuring the club’s long-term success and recognises the importance of selecting the right manager. While Xabi Alonso is widely regarded as the frontrunner for the managerial position, Zidane’s potential return is being seriously considered by the club’s hierarchy.

Zidane’s Demands for a Return

The Frenchman, who enjoyed two highly successful stints as Real Madrid manager, has reportedly made it clear that his return would hinge on the acquisition of four key players: Alphonso Davies, Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, and Florian Wirtz.

These players are said to be central to Zidane’s vision for the club, as he believes they would significantly bolster the squad and secure Real Madrid’s dominance both domestically and in Europe.

Divided Opinions at the Club

Zidane’s potential comeback has sparked mixed opinions. Many see his return as a logical move given his unparalleled success with the club, both as a player and a manager. During his previous spells, Zidane guided Real Madrid to multiple UEFA Champions League titles and other honours.

However, there are voices within the footballing community and the club itself advocating for a fresh perspective, with Xabi Alonso offering an exciting alternative. The decision ultimately rests with the Real Madrid board, who must weigh the pros and cons of Zidane’s demands and his managerial expertise.

Challenges of Zidane’s Transfer Requests

While all four players—Davies, Kimmich, Tah, and Wirtz—have reportedly been on Real Madrid’s radar, securing them in a single transfer window would pose a considerable challenge. Even for a club of Real Madrid’s financial clout, completing such a significant overhaul would require meticulous planning and substantial investment.

The acquisition of these players could reshape the team, but achieving it might involve intense negotiations and competition from other top European clubs.

As discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether Zidane’s conditions will align with the club’s ambitions and financial capabilities. His return could herald another golden era for Los Blancos, but the path to such an outcome is far from straightforward.