Zinedine Zidane 'private talks' with Ineos speak volumes as Man United miss out on Thomas Tuchel

Jean-Claude Blanc, Ineos' chief executive officer of sport, has reportedly maintained communication with Zinedine Zidane amid rumours linking him with Manchester United. The Frenchman has been unemployed since his departure from Real Madrid for the second time.

Despite speculation about a return to management, the three-time Champions League winning manager has remained without a club. United, who are considering their options with Erik ten Hag following a disappointing start to the season, could be a tempting prospect for Zidane.

According to The Independent, via the Mirror, Ineos admire Zidane's success as both a player and a coach, and intend to keep this connection open in case the managerial situation at Old Trafford changes. For now, it seems that United will stand by Ten Hag despite their worst ever start to a Premier League season having considering Thomas Tuchel, who has now become England's new manager.

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A seven-hour meeting was held in London involving all major decision-makers from Old Trafford, but no drastic decisions were made. Despite surviving a summer review and investing in the transfer market, Ten Hag has yet to see an improvement in results.

At the meeting, concerns were reportedly raised about the shortage of high-calibre coaches, which influenced the decision to support their current manager. Zidane has been previously touted for the French national team role due to his legacy with Les Blues, but Didier Deschamps has held onto the position despite France's recent international disappointments.