**BREAKING NEWS: Live from Sky Sports – Zidane Discusses Manchester United’s Managerial Situation, Supports Carrick or Solskjaer as Ten Hag’s Successor**
In an eye-opening interview that has captivated the football community, renowned French manager Zinedine Zidane shared his views on the future of Manchester United’s management. Speaking live on Sky Sports, Zidane expressed his thoughts on the ongoing discussions about Erik ten Hag’s role at Old Trafford and the club’s future direction. The former Real Madrid manager, celebrated for his directness and winning mindset, made headlines by suggesting two former Manchester United figures as viable successors to Ten Hag.
“I honestly don’t get what the fans or the club expect anymore,” Zidane began, his tone showing both frustration and concern. “Manchester United doesn’t need a ‘me’ or any other big-name manager after Ten Hag. What they need is someone who truly understands the culture of this club.”
Zidane, who has often been linked to a move to Old Trafford, surprised many by excluding himself from the conversation and instead endorsing Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Both are former players and managers at the club, with Carrick having briefly taken the helm before Ten Hag’s arrival and Solskjaer enjoying a three-year tenure.
“I’d prefer Michael Carrick or Ole Gunnar to take over,” Zidane stated firmly. “Sure, it might mean suffering for a season or two, but in the long run, you’ll see the rewards—winning silverware. Or you can bring in a big-name manager, win a few trophies early on, and then watch the struggle set in. That’s the Premier League for you—ask José Mourinho.” Zidane smiled while making this remark, clearly referencing the challenges faced by the former United manager.
Zidane’s statements have struck a chord with the United fanbase, which remains divided about the club’s current direction. While some supporters still hope Ten Hag can effect change, others express concerns regarding the team’s identity and consistency. For Zidane, long-term success hinges on selecting a manager who not only excels in football but also deeply understands the club’s history and ethos.
“Manchester United’s culture is unique, and it’s built on a foundation of resilience, attacking football, and nurturing young talent,” Zidane continued. “You need a manager who lived that culture as a player, who understands what it means to wear that shirt and fight for this badge. Carrick and Ole know what it takes; they’ve been through the ups and downs with this club.”
Zidane’s backing of Carrick and Solskjaer is refreshing for those nostalgic about Solskjaer’s time in charge, where the team exhibited promising signs of progress. Similarly, Carrick remains a respected figure among supporters following his brief yet positive interim management.
Zidane suggested that while high-profile managerial appointments might yield immediate success, they often lead to instability in the highly competitive Premier League. “I’ve seen it all, whether it’s Mourinho or Guardiola, or even Klopp. They are all great managers, but their success is often built on specific conditions and investments. At a club like United, it’s different—you need to build from within, and that means trusting people who understand the philosophy.”
His remarks triggered immediate reactions across social media and among football analysts. Many believe Zidane’s experience at Real Madrid provides him with a unique perspective on managing prestigious clubs. However, others argued that hiring Carrick or Solskjaer could be viewed as regressive in today’s demanding football environment.
Zidane’s public comments may also serve as a subtle nudge to the club’s leadership to consider their decision regarding Ten Hag’s future carefully. While there’s no sign that a management change is imminent, Zidane’s remarks have certainly intensified the discussion.
**Fan Reactions**
The response from Manchester United fans has been largely positive, with many agreeing with Zidane’s perspective. Numerous supporters took to social media to commend the Frenchman’s grasp of the club’s traditions and to suggest his involvement at a higher level, possibly even on the club’s board. “We need to recruit Zidane into United’s board,” one fan tweeted. “He speaks with wisdom and understands what this club truly needs.”
As the debate over management continues, it is clear that Zidane’s voice has added a new layer to the conversation about Manchester United’s future. Whether his suggestions will be heeded remains to be seen, but the French legend has undoubtedly made a strong case for a return to the club’s foundational values.
