WHY ZIDANE MIGHT HAVE STEPPED DOWN

Zidane has not given any reason for his decision to step down as Real manager days after winning the Champions League. However, by the way things have gone this season, his desire to take rest may not be the only factor

Ronaldo unhappy?

Zidane has rested Ronaldo in the La Liga on several occasions this season to assure the Portuguese star’s fitness in big games. Ronaldo played only 27 of the 38 games in La Liga. After winning the Champions League, Ronaldo hinted at his uncertainty to remain at the club.

Bale uprising

Gareth Bale was left on the bench often despite his return to fitness. Zidane preferring to start compatriot Karim Benzema in the Champions League final despite Bale’s form — he scored in all four starts in La Liga leading to the final — could be the last straw.

Domestic failure

Zidane’s lack of focus on La Liga may have been cause of heartburn for board and fans. He won one La Liga and a Spanish Super Cup in his twoand-a-half years. Real lost six and drew 10 in La Liga this season finishing third.

In the family

Zidane handed his second-oldest son Luca his senior Real Madrid debut ahead of second-choice ’keeper Kiko Casilla. Last season, Luca’s older brother Enzo was seemingly given more chances in the reserve team, before he was sold to Alaves. Zidane’s position as manager and Luca’s desire to rise in Real’s ranks could clash.