Zinedine Zidane has once again clarified his stance on a potential move to Liverpool, as speculation intensifies around who could replace Arne Slot. With Liverpool’s early-season momentum fading and managerial pressure rising, Zidane’s name has resurfaced as a serious contender — but the French icon has made one crucial condition clear before he would even consider taking the job.
Earlier in the season, the mood around Anfield was far more optimistic. Slot’s Liverpool had opened the campaign with seven straight wins across all competitions, including a hard-fought 2–1 Carabao Cup victory over Southampton. However, recent struggles have dramatically shifted perceptions and prompted bookmakers to reassess the managerial landscape.
According to Betfair, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is now the leading favourite for the Liverpool job at 3/1, followed by Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola at 4/1. Zidane appears third in the running at 9/2, ahead of Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann at 7/1, while a dramatic return for Jürgen Klopp sits further down at 9/1.
Despite not coaching since leaving Real Madrid, Zidane has never hidden his admiration for Liverpool. He has previously spoken glowingly about Anfield, calling it one of the greatest stadiums in world football. Speaking on Real Madrid’s official YouTube channel, he recalled the atmosphere vividly, describing the experience with deep respect.
Before a Champions League clash in 2021, Zidane even praised Liverpool’s entire structure, calling them a “complete team” and warning that their biggest strength wasn’t only in attack, but in how effectively they worked together.
However, one major factor continues to stand between Zidane and any Premier League appointment.
The former Real Madrid boss has openly admitted that he does not feel comfortable enough with the English language to manage a club in England. In a 2022 interview with L’Équipe, he said:
“I understand English, but I don’t fully control it. Some coaches go to clubs without speaking the language, but I do things differently.”
This remains Zidane’s single non-negotiable condition: he will not accept the Liverpool job — or any other Premier League role — unless he first feels completely confident in his English. For Zidane, communication, leadership, and clarity are essential, and he refuses to compromise on that standard.
As speculation grows around Slot’s future, Liverpool may admire Zidane’s vision and track record, but unless the language barrier is resolved, the French legend is unlikely to take a seat in the Anfield dugout anytime soon.
