Reports: Real Madrid Prepare a three-man Short-list to Replace Zinedine Zidane

After a heavy defeat in their opening UEFA Champions League fixture against PSG, Real Madrid are reportedly looking for a change in management.

In fact, The Sun have reported a three man shortlist of people who might replace Zinedine Zidane as the manager of Real Madrid. The shortlist includes former player Xabi Alonso, former manager Jose Mourinho and former Juventus manager Max Allegri.

Amidst these reports, Mourinho has spoken to Deportes Cuatro about the Los Blancos.

“They’re third or fourth, no? Close to being first,” Mourinho was quoted as saying. “It’s not bad. If you look at it pragmatically, if you focus on the table, they’re right there. Now, they play Sevilla and if they win, they go ahead of them. Barcelona are behind them and Atletico are a point ahead.”

The former Chelsea manager, who has been out of managerial action since December last year, rubbished the reports as rumours.

“There are two types of rumours. One, when one speaks about Zidane, who is one of ours and it hurts us when our teams aren’t going well. You have to live with it,” he said.

“Zidane is in football all his life and he knows it. The other type of rumour is to put my name in there, and I don’t like that. There are problems in many places, but another thing is respect.”

Referring to Zidane as a good manager, Mourinho further went on to say it wasn’t possible for him to coach a team that already has a manager.

“I wouldn’t like to return because they have a manager and I can’t coach a team who have a manager,” he said. “You can speak with respect about the club but also about the manager who isn’t just anyone. I am out of it. I’m not just blowing smoke. I would like that things turn out well and everything gets fixed.”

“Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico, Manchester United and Chelsea – when you have massive expectations, it’s difficult and tough. And for this, they say there are good players and managers who aren’t giving everything, because it takes more than just talent, you also have to have a certain special personality.”