European football’s elite still cannot believe the offer Zinedine Zidane rejected to return to the bench. Moreover, the reason why he refused to train again was even more surprising.
If there is one thing that Zinedine Zidane is associated with both inside and outside France, it is the city of Marseille. Not in vain, over the years, the former white “5” has expanded this union dating back to his early childhood and its origins . Despite everything, his recent arrival from this place was not enough to convince him to return.
The information spread like wildfire in the neighboring country, as it was stated that the management of the Olympique de Marseille club did not hesitate to summon the French-Algerian coach with the aim of using his services to correct the chaotic path, at least in the sporting field. The side currently held by the French entity. Economically, the offer was unbeatable: €20 million per year.
The scale of the bid launched by Olympique Marseille executives was too high even for a technician with Zidane’s stamp and resume. To put it in perspective, the Frenchman received a salary of 12 million euros in his final phase as coach of the Merengue between 2018 and 2021. Even this significant increase in his fees did not make the former white footballer accept Olympique Marseille’s offer.
clarification
If money is not Zinedine Zidane’s main motivation, there is only the possibility of returning for a third adventure on the bench at the Santiago Bernabéu. In France, they came to such a conclusion after analyzing what was proposed by Olympique de Marseille, a city and a club with which Zidane feels an almost similar affinity, although certainly less, that he maintains today with Real Madrid.
The opportunity to take charge of the Whites’ dressing room with Carlo Ancelotti’s departure at the end of the current season is what keeps Zidane away from other European seats. The French-Algerian is still awaiting a call from Florentino Pérez, with whom he maintains an excellent relationship following his departure, and although Xabi Alonso may be the favorite of the merengue boss, the Frenchman can never be ruled out as a real option for Santiago. Bench at the Bernabéu.
