Former Real Madrid star Zinedine Zidane has today confirmed that he will be the club’s new Sporting Director.
The French World Cup winner will succeed Jorge Valdano who was dismissed back in May after a number of disagreements with the coaching staff, in particular with Coach Jose Mourinho.
Zidane had been previously working as a special advisor to President Florentino Perez but is now set for a more hands on approach – working more closely with Mourinho.
“I will be director of football for the first team,” Zidane confirmed to the press.
Although he is not entirely sure of what his task entails, he revealed the Coach played a huge part in his decision.
“Mourinho influenced this decision, but also Florentino (Perez). We shall see what my work is. The important thing is that I am very happy at this club.”
He played a pivotal role in the club’s acquisition of his 18-year-old compatriot Raphael Varane from Lens at the back end of last month. On that he said: “He has a tremendous future and it’s a good thing to arrive at Real Madrid so young. Varane liked the Coach, so that is why he is here.”
Zidane, who was once the club’s record signing back in 2001 when he moved from Juventus for €75m, made 225 appearances for The Whites and contributed with 49 goals.
