Zidane returns to lead Real Madrid

President Florentino Perez has succeeded in convincing Zinedine Zidane to return to the position he held from 2016 to May 2018. The former France international will lead Real for the rest of the season and for three more years.

"I'm very happy to be back home," Zidane said at a press conference held last night, March 11 (Madrid time).

At the same time as announcing Zidane's appointment, Real announced their farewell to Santiago Solari after nearly 5 months of him leading the club."Real Madrid thanks Santiago Solari for his work, commitment and loyalty shown at his home," Real said in a statement.

Solari has been offered a different role at the club, having previously coached Real's youth team.

Zinedine left Real on 31 May 2018 after helping the club win its third consecutive Champions League. Zidane was also appointed mid-season in his first spell at Real, replacing Rafael Benitez in January 2016 and immediately brought a breath of fresh air to the club.

In addition to his unprecedented Champions League achievements, Zidane also helped Real win two European Super Cups, two FIFA Club World Cups, one La Liga and one Spanish Super Cup. Perez hopes the French coach can repeat those achievements and revive the "sinking ship" Real.

Many people think Zidane is taking a risk by accepting to return because Real's squad needs rebuilding. His old players like Cristiano Ronaldo have left, while Sergio Ramos, Marcello... are all in poor form.According toMarcaIt took Perez two private meetings to convince Zidane to return.

Real are third in La Liga, 12 points behind leaders Barca. They have been eliminated from the Champions League and the Copa del Rey.