Jose’s Real return KO’D by dressing room revolt
ZINEDINE ZIDANE has made a sensational return to Real Madrid – after the players “rejected” Jose Mourinho.
Zidane (inset) was reinstated as Bernabeu boss after signing a three-year deal, having quit the Spanish giants just 10 months ago despite winning a third consecutive Champions League title.
But it comes after a dramatic U-turn on former Manchester United and Chelsea chief Mourinho, who had been lined up to make his own return to Real, after previously having a turbulent threeyear stint in charge.
Former Bernabeu president Ramon Calderon said: “Zidane will be received well by the players, who were rejecting the idea of Mourinho coming. We
are very lucky to have
Zidane here. It’s a good choice. The other one was Mourinho and I think in the last few days the leaders of the dressing room have pushed to reject him.”
It is the second time this term that player power has blocked an appointment as last October the Real squad – led by Sergio Ramos – also stopped former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte (above) getting the job.
And Mourinho fell out with Real’s biggest stars during his time at the club, such as keeper Iker Casillas.
Zidane will be Real’s third boss this term after former Spain chief Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari, who was sacked yesterday.