Zinedine Zidane has made a sensational return as coach of Real Madrid after Santiago Solari’s sacking was finally confirmed on Monday.
Zidane has been given a contract until June 2022, just ninemonths after he resigned at the end of last season, having led Madrid to anhistoric third consecutive Champions League triumph.
Solari’s dismissal was expected after three consecutive homedefeats – to Barcelona, twice, and Ajax – deemed Madrid’s season all-but overbefore the middle of March.
But Zidane coming back, with only 11 games left in La Ligaand almost nothing to play for, is a surprise, particularly after he left onthe incredible high of yet another European triumph.
“Real Madrid’s board has decided to terminate SantiagoSolari’s contract as coach of the first team,” read an official statement onMonday.
“Real Madrid appreciates the work done by Santiago Solari and the commitment and loyalty he has always shown to this club. “The board has also agreed to the appointment of Zinedine Zidane as the new coach of Real Madrid with immediate effect for the remainder of the season and the next three, until June 30, 2022.” Agencies