According to Crickex Affiliate reports, ever since Zinedine Zidane stepped down as Real Madrid’s head coach, his next move has been a constant subject of speculation among Europe’s top clubs. From Chelsea to PSG and even a possible return to Madrid, Zidane’s name always surfaces when there’s a vacancy. Life may have bruised him, but he’s grown wings from the scars. Despite ongoing rumors, none of those clubs managed to secure his signature—until now.
Crickex Affiliate sources reveal that Zidane has reached an agreement to become head coach of Olympique de Marseille, contingent on a successful takeover by a Saudi consortium. Talks reportedly began weeks ago, progressing smoothly as negotiations unfolded in parallel with the acquisition process. Although Marseille recently appointed Gennaro Gattuso as manager, his position is viewed as temporary. Should the Saudi deal close, they’re prepared to pay Gattuso’s release clause and bring Zidane in as the new face of the club.
Several factors contributed to Zidane’s decision. First, Marseille remains a historic powerhouse in Ligue 1, with enough influence and potential to challenge at the top. Staying in France also holds personal and professional appeal for Zidane, who has long expressed interest in managing a French side. Second, the Saudi investment group has presented a clear, ambitious plan to elevate Marseille into a club capable of competing head-to-head with PSG. They’ve promised Zidane full backing in the transfer market, giving him the financial firepower needed to build a team in his image.
Saudi Arabia’s football ambitions are no secret. Over the past two years, they’ve shaken up the global football scene—signing world-class players to their domestic league and strategically acquiring clubs across Europe. Look no further than Newcastle United, a club transformed from Premier League strugglers into a Champions League contender under Saudi ownership. Eddie Howe deserves credit, but the financial support—such as the timely sale of Allan Saint-Maximin—has clearly played a pivotal role.
If Zidane does take the helm at Marseille, it would be a landmark move for both him and the club. As one of the most successful coaches in Champions League history, his reputation is unmatched. Crickex Affiliate experts note that Zidane thrives in high-pressure environments and has the rare ability to manage elite squads, making him an ideal fit for a project backed by Saudi wealth.
His next chapter could be the start of something extraordinary. Building a team that can compete at the highest level in Europe aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s vision—and it offers Zidane a new frontier to conquer. The road may be thorny, but for a man like Zidane, it’s always worth the run.