Real Madrid have confirmed the return of Zinedine Zidane as head coach.
He replaces Santi Solari who was placed in interim charge following the sacking of Julen Lopetegui in October.
Zidane has been handed the reins for the rest of this season and the next three years.
The French legend only departed the club at the end of last season after leading them to three consecutive wins in the Champions League.
However with Real on a run of five defeats in seven games – including a Champions League exit to Ajax – the club’s top brass have initiated Zidane’s return.
In the space of less than a week, Madrid twice lost to Barcelona and to Ajax being eliminated from the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, and seeing their La Liga title bid all but end.
Zidane’s name was a unanimous choice within the club but few thought he would accept returning so soon after deciding to take a break.
He took over in January 2016 and immediately won over the squad with his calm manner and easy-going attitude. In addition to the three Champions League titles, he also led Madrid to the 2017 Spanish league title, the club’s first in five years.
Reports in Spain say its likely to mean difficulties for Gareth Bale, who did not get on very well with Zidane who questioned his inability to integrate.
Controversial Sergio Ramos who’s deeply unpopular with President Florentino Lopez will be supported by Zidane who will want Eden Hazard and Christian Eriksen added in the summer.
The French former footballing maestro is expected to demand that he not just manage the first team but the recruitment and all for a strong remuneration.
