Zinedine Zidane’s Dramatic Return to Real Madrid: Key Beneficiaries and Those Facing Setbacks
After a turbulent period culminating in a disappointing Champions League exit at the hands of Ajax, Real Madrid made the decisive move to part ways with manager Santiago Solari. Despite maintaining an impressive 68% win rate, Solari’s tenure was marred by inconsistency and the team’s inability to secure what would have been an unprecedented fourth consecutive Champions League title. In the wake of this turmoil, Zinedine Zidane—widely regarded as the club’s most successful manager—has made a sensational comeback to the Bernabéu. Zidane’s return not only signals a period of transition but also reshapes the immediate futures of several high-profile squad members. Here’s a comprehensive overview of who stands to gain and who may lose out in the wake of Zidane’s second spell as Madrid manager.
Who Benefits Most from Zidane’s Return?
When a coach of Zidane’s stature returns, it inevitably leads to changes in team dynamics and opportunities for players who previously found themselves sidelined. Some squad members are clearly positioned to thrive once again.
Isco: Poised for a Creative Renaissance
Isco thrived during Zidane’s initial reign, playing a pivotal role in Real’s midfield and producing standout performances during the World Cup. However, his fortunes dipped dramatically after Zidane’s departure, with his appearances and impact dwindling under both Solari and Lopetegui. Confined mostly to the bench and struggling for influence, Isco managed only two goals and two assists throughout the campaign. With Zidane reinstating tactical structures that play to Isco’s strengths—such as the diamond formation or the 4-2-3-1—the Spanish playmaker looks set for a resurgence. His performance in Zidane’s first game back hinted at a bright finish to the season, regaining the creative freedom that once made him indispensable.
Marcelo: From Outcast to Essential Player
For years, Marcelo’s prowess at left-back defined Real Madrid’s attacking play. Recent seasons, however, saw the decorated Brazilian lose both form and his starting spot, resulting in fewer appearances than at any point since his injury-plagued 2012-13 season. Under Zidane, Marcelo was immediately restored to the lineup and responded with one of his best outings of the season. A return to confidence and match fitness under Zidane’s guidance could see Marcelo reaffirm his status as one of the world’s top fullbacks and regain his crucial role in Madrid’s system.
Keylor Navas: Earning Back the Number One Jersey
Goalkeeping rotations were a point of contention under previous managers, with new recruit Thibaut Courtois struggling to convince since arriving at the Bernabéu. Keylor Navas, a three-time Champions League winner with Zidane, was reinstated as first-choice goalkeeper in Zidane’s opening fixture. Navas’s reliable performances throughout the campaign have often stood out in an otherwise inconsistent season for Madrid, and under Zidane’s renewed faith, he seems likely to reclaim the starting spot for the remainder of the season.
Players Facing Uncertain Futures Under Zidane
While Zidane’s return is great news for some, others may see their opportunities diminish or face greater competition for their positions.
Thibaut Courtois: Under Increasing Pressure
Courtois’s transfer to Madrid was heralded as a coup, but his performances since arriving from Chelsea have drawn substantial criticism. With Zidane’s history of preferring Navas during his earlier tenure, the Belgian international now faces the real prospect of being relegated to a backup role, at least in the short term. Unless Courtois can drastically improve his form and consistency, regaining his place as the undisputed number one looks increasingly challenging.
Vinicius Junior: Promising Talent Facing Tactical Shift
Despite being a finalist for the 2018 Golden Boy award and cementing his place in the starting lineup under Solari, Vinicius Junior’s breakthrough has stalled somewhat, with just two goals from fifteen appearances. Zidane’s potential shift back to systems favouring Isco, and possibly Marco Asensio, may reduce the Brazilian youngster’s involvement in the first team. Given his age—he’s still just 18—the forward’s long-term outlook at Real Madrid remains bright, but patient development and tactical adaptation are now likely prerequisites.
Rising Competition Awaits Next Season in Europe
During Zidane’s previous spell, Real Madrid achieved the extraordinary feat of winning three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. Last season, their early exit highlighted how crucial Zidane’s leadership had been in Europe. As he returns, Madrid’s European rivals, including the likes of Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and FC Barcelona, will be acutely aware that Zidane’s presence once again makes the Spaniards a formidable threat on the continental stage.
The Changing Landscape at Real Madrid
Zinedine Zidane’s return marks a pivotal moment for Real Madrid, restoring stability and a winning mentality just when the club needs it most. Key players such as Isco, Marcelo, and Keylor Navas are already redefining their roles, while others face challenges as team selection and tactics evolve. The transformation unfolding at the Bernabéu promises a renewed drive for European and domestic success—an era that could see Madrid reclaim their seat at the pinnacle of world football.
As the dust settles and Zidane’s strategies take hold, both fans and players wait with bated breath to see who will ultimately emerge as the mainstays—and who may struggle to adapt—in this new chapter of Real Madrid’s storied history.
