The French boss of the Los Blancos may well see the end of this second term in the next few days after being unable to lift any title this season.
Having valiantly kept his team amazingly intact in the title race after 60 injuries despite problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Zinedine Zidane was unable to lead Los Blancos to a consecutive La Liga title this Saturday despite sealing their last game with a win against Villarreal. To lift the title again, Atlético had to lose their clash against Valladolid, but goals by Angel Correa and Luis Suárez gifted Los Colchoneros the trophy.
Speaking post-match, Zidane shared his feelings about the hectic end to the drama-flled season, which saw them almost clinching a second consecutive title only to edged out by Atletico Madrid at the eleventh hour in the penultimate season-ending games.
“The first thing is to thank our fans, because they supported us even if they were not able to come to the stadium. They can feel proud of our team because they gave their all. It was not easy, but we tried to deliver. I can only be proud for my players,” Zidane stated.
When queried about his future, the illustrious coach hinted that the decision will be one for Florentino Pérez to make, as a trophyless season at Real has always seen the manager shown the exit.
“I will have a word in the next few days with the club, with the people I need to talk about it. You will see soon enough what will happen, but not only with me, with the entire club and with the next season in mind. You know what kind of season we’ve had. We know what Real Madrid has to accomplish each season and we got nothing. Hence, we have to talk with those in charge, but not now, today we have to congratulate our players for their effort,” Zidane added.
Before the press conference concluded, Zidane conveyed his congratulations to Atlético for their 11th league title, but was mindful to continue lavishing praises on his squad while at it.
“We have to congratulate Atlético, because if you’re at the top of the league you certainly deserve it. They had a great season and they deserve their praise. After that, I’ll keep congratulating my players and then I will talk with the club, but not now. Today should be a day for us to thank our players,” Zidane concluded.
Real Madrid have concluded the season without any silverware for the first time since the 2009-10 campaign. It had been Florentino Pérez’s style to fire all coaches who have ended the season without any new titles, but it’s possible Zidane’s legendary status at the club could see him change that stance this time.