What Is Zinedine Zidane Doing After Retiring? Life Beyond the Pitch

Zinedine Zidane, one of the most revered figures in football history, hung up his boots in 2006 after a legendary playing career that included triumphs with France, Juventus, and Real Madrid. Famous for his elegance, composure, and creative genius, Zidane bowed out on the grandest stage—the 2006 FIFA World Cup final—but his influence on football didn’t end there.

Since retiring, Zidane has pursued a multi-faceted post-playing career. He has made waves as a world-class coach, maintained a prominent public presence, supported charitable causes, and remained one of the most respected voices in global sport. This article explores everything Zidane has done after retiring from playing, and how he continues to shape football today.

Coaching Career: From Apprentice to Three-Time Champions League Winner

After retiring from his illustrious playing career in 2006, Zinedine Zidane initially took time away from the field before gradually immersing himself in coaching. His calm demeanor and sharp footballing mind made him a natural fit for a leadership role, but Zidane was determined to learn from the ground up.

He began as a special advisor to Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez, later assisting José Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti behind the scenes. His influence on players and understanding of tactical nuances made it clear that Zidane had the potential to become a top-level manager.

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Real Madrid Castilla: Building the Foundation (2014–2016)

In 2014, Zidane was appointed head coach of Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s B team. This experience allowed him to:

• Develop his coaching philosophy

• Mentor and manage emerging talents

• Understand the dynamics of match preparation and squad rotation

• Adapt to the pressures of delivering results while nurturing youth

His time with Castilla helped Zidane transition smoothly from legendary player to respected coach, laying the groundwork for the extraordinary success that would follow.

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First-Team Manager of Real Madrid (2016–2018)

In January 2016, Zidane was appointed as Real Madrid’s head coach, replacing Rafael Benítez. Though many questioned whether he could handle the egos and expectations of one of the world’s biggest clubs, Zidane silenced all doubts with historic success.

Champions League Dominance

Zidane made history by winning the UEFA Champions League in his first season (2015–16), defeating Atlético Madrid in a tense final. It was only the beginning.

He went on to lead Real Madrid to:

• Three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles: 2016, 2017, 2018

• Becoming the first manager in the modern era to win three UCLs in a row

• Back-to-back UEFA Super Cups and FIFA Club World Cups

Domestic Success

In addition to European dominance, Zidane led Real Madrid to:

• La Liga title (2016–17)

• Supercopa de España (2017)

He instilled tactical flexibility, rotating his squad effectively, and managing superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Luka Modrić, and Toni Kroos with authority and diplomacy.

Style and Philosophy

Zidane’s coaching was characterized by:

• Emphasis on team harmony and motivation

• Trust in experienced players combined with belief in youth

• Adaptive tactics depending on the opponent

• Calm, composed presence in high-pressure situations

His ability to handle the dressing room and keep the squad focused across multiple competitions proved vital to Madrid’s success.

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Resignation and Return: The Second Chapter (2019–2021)

In May 2018, Zidane shocked the world by resigning at the peak of his success, citing the need for change. However, Real Madrid’s subsequent struggles led to his return in March 2019.

During his second tenure:

• Zidane won La Liga (2019–20) in a pandemic-disrupted season

• Captured the Supercopa de España (2020)

• Rebuilt the team amidst injuries, aging players, and tactical evolution

Despite falling short in Europe during this stint, Zidane stabilized the club and promoted young players such as Federico Valverde and Éder Militão.

He stepped down again in May 2021, expressing frustration with internal dynamics and lack of support from club leadership.

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Legacy as a Coach

Zidane’s coaching legacy is exceptional:

• 3× UEFA Champions League Winner – a record unmatched in modern football

• 2× La Liga Champion (as coach and player)

• World-class man-manager respected by players and staff

• One of the few legends to succeed both on the pitch and on the bench

His record of 11 major trophies in less than six years at the elite level makes him one of the most successful and efficient managers in the history of the sport.

Zinedine Zidane’s transition from apprentice to managerial mastermind is a story of natural leadership, humility, and tactical sharpness. While many great players struggle to coach at the same level, Zidane shattered expectations by guiding Real Madrid to an unprecedented era of success.

As the football world waits for his next chapter—possibly with the France national team or another European giant—Zidane’s coaching résumé already places him among the greatest managers of the 21st century.

Life After Coaching: A Pause, Not a Retirement

When Zinedine Zidane stepped down from his second spell as Real Madrid’s head coach in May 2021, he did so not with the tone of retirement, but of reflection and recalibration. Unlike many managers who fade from the spotlight after an intense tenure, Zidane made it clear: he was not done with football. Instead, he was simply waiting for the right opportunity, one that aligned with his values, ambitions, and identity.

Zidane’s exit was marked by a strong open letter in which he expressed frustration over a lack of internal trust and communication at Real Madrid. It was a rare moment of candidness, showing that Zidane sought more than just titles—he wanted respect, purpose, and control in his role.

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Rumors and Speculation: Where Will Zidane Go Next?

Since leaving Madrid, Zidane has been the subject of intense speculation. His status as a global football icon and proven winner makes him a top target for many elite clubs and national federations. Yet, he remains deliberate and selective, unwilling to return until the right project presents itself.

Linked Teams and Roles:

• France National Team
  Zidane is widely seen as the natural successor to Didier Deschamps. A proud Frenchman and World Cup legend, Zidane has never hidden his desire to coach Les Bleus. After the 2022 World Cup, many believed his appointment was imminent, but Deschamps was extended until 2026. Zidane has publicly stated that managing France remains a clear ambition.

• Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
  PSG have reportedly courted Zidane multiple times, hoping to combine his tactical experience with their star-filled squad. However, Zidane has allegedly resisted the move, possibly due to concerns over sporting control and his loyalty to Marseille, PSG’s historical rival.

• Juventus
  Given his successful playing spell in Turin, Zidane has been linked with a return to Juventus as a manager. The club’s rich history, current rebuilding phase, and familiar environment make it a plausible destination.

• Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Brazil National Team
  While mentioned in passing, Zidane has shown little public interest in taking jobs outside France, Spain, or Italy. He values language fluency, cultural fit, and long-term vision—criteria that narrow the field.

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Enjoying Family, Freedom, and Football from Afar

During his time away from coaching, Zidane has embraced a lower-profile lifestyle—spending time with family, watching football, and continuing his role as a global ambassador.

• He remains involved in his sons’ football journeys, especially Luca Zidane, who plays professionally as a goalkeeper.

• He travels selectively for events like FIFA ceremonies, Champions League draws, and ambassadorial appearances.

• On social media, he shares glimpses of private training sessions, reflections on the game, and endorsements with major brands like Adidas and Montblanc.

Zidane is also invited frequently for exclusive interviews and panel discussions, where he analyzes elite football with clarity and class, reinforcing his football intellect even off the touchline.

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A Thoughtful Strategist, Not Just a Manager

What sets Zidane apart from many former players is his methodical and introspective nature. He isn’t rushing to coach for the sake of visibility. Instead, he seeks:

• A project with trust and freedom

• A team aligned with his football principles

• Respect from the top level of club or federation leadership

In his own words, he’s not closing the door—he’s waiting for it to open on his terms.

Zinedine Zidane’s current phase is not a retirement—it is a strategic interlude. After conquering Europe as a coach and stepping back from the sidelines, he continues to influence the game through advice, observation, and careful preparation for his next challenge.

Whether he returns to football with France, PSG, or another elite club, Zidane’s legacy ensures that his next move will be seismic. Until then, the football world watches and waits for the return of one of the game’s greatest minds—refreshed, ready, and relevant.

Public Image and Media Presence: The Enduring Icon

Zinedine Zidane is one of the most recognizable and universally respected figures in the world of football. Since retiring from playing—and even more so after stepping away from coaching—he has maintained a powerful public presence, characterized not by volume, but by dignity, influence, and authority.

Unlike many other football legends who frequently appear in tabloids or heated talk shows, Zidane’s media persona is marked by discretion and precision. When he speaks, the world listens—because Zidane doesn’t speak often, but always with purpose.

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An International Football Icon

Zidane is revered not only in France and Spain, where he left his deepest sporting legacy, but also across the Middle East, North Africa, Latin America, and Asia. He enjoys universal appeal due to:

• His dual identity as a Frenchman with Algerian roots

• His career at clubs with massive global fanbases (Juventus, Real Madrid)

• His role as a symbol of humility, excellence, and multicultural success

Zidane frequently appears at global football events, including:

• Ballon d’Or ceremonies

• UEFA Champions League draws

• FIFA World Cup galas

• Major testimonial matches and charity games

His presence at these events often overshadows current players and managers, reinforcing his status as a living legend of the sport.

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Media Appearances and Interviews

Although selective, Zidane has participated in high-profile interviews and documentaries, where his insights are praised for their depth, clarity, and composure.

• He has been featured in documentaries such as:

  • “Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait” (a cult classic focused on his final playing season)

  • Retrospectives on France 1998, Real Madrid’s Champions League reign, and the 2006 World Cup

• He occasionally provides analytical commentary in select interviews, sharing tactical observations and leadership perspectives

His statements are often measured and inspirational, resonating with both sports professionals and the general public.

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Brand Partnerships and Endorsements

Zidane’s image is one of elegance, intellect, and integrity, making him a top-tier ambassador for premium global brands.

Key Endorsements:

• Adidas – Long-standing partnership; Zidane is a face of the brand’s legacy and future.

• Montblanc – Symbol of timeless sophistication.

• Audi and Orange – Technological and lifestyle partnerships.

• Y-3 and By Zidane – Involvement in fashion and personal brand curation.

Unlike some modern athletes who over-commercialize their image, Zidane’s brand presence remains subtle, curated, and powerful. Every campaign he joins is aligned with his personal values and public persona.

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Social Media Presence

Though not hyperactive, Zidane maintains a strategic and professional social media presence, particularly on Instagram, where he shares:

• Glimpses into his family life

• Personal training and health routines

• Occasional reflections on football

• Endorsement content that blends lifestyle and legacy

He avoids controversy, clickbait, or constant posting—maintaining his image as a quiet master, not a social media influencer.

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A Bridge Between Generations

Zidane’s image appeals to multiple generations:

• Older fans remember his brilliance in 1998, Euro 2000, and the 2006 World Cup.

• Younger fans idolize him for his Champions League success and coaching demeanor.

• Aspiring footballers view him as a mentor figure, combining tactical knowledge with emotional intelligence.

He is regularly referenced by modern stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Paul Pogba, Luka Modrić, and Karim Benzema, who cite him as an inspiration.

Zinedine Zidane’s public image is a masterclass in legacy management. He embodies quiet confidence, global appeal, and unshakeable dignity—qualities that make him not just a former player or coach, but a cultural icon.

Whether appearing at elite football galas, leading global brand campaigns, or inspiring through rare interviews, Zidane continues to influence the game—not with noise, but with presence.

Endorsements and Business Ventures: Zidane’s Global Brand Power

Zinedine Zidane is more than a football legend—he is a global brand. Known for his elegance on the pitch and humility off it, Zidane has built a business identity that reflects sophistication, trust, and international appeal. Unlike some athletes who chase quantity in endorsements, Zidane has selectively partnered with premium, reputable brands, enhancing his image while expanding his commercial footprint.

His business ventures and endorsements span luxury goods, sportswear, finance, automotive, lifestyle, and media, proving that the “Zizou” brand holds influence well beyond the football field.

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Adidas: A Timeless Partnership

Zidane’s most enduring and iconic partnership is with Adidas, a relationship that has lasted over two decades.

• Featured in global campaigns such as “Impossible is Nothing”

• Endorsed legendary boots like the Predator Accelerator and the Predator Mania

• Celebrated in special edition releases, including the Zidane x Predator remakes

• Integral figure in Adidas’ ambassador team, alongside Messi and Beckham

This collaboration has been central to Zidane’s brand image—classic, elite, and grounded in performance.

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Luxury and Fashion Collaborations

Zidane has carefully aligned himself with luxury fashion and lifestyle brands, projecting an image of refinement and maturity.

Montblanc:

• Brand ambassador for Montblanc watches and writing instruments

• Campaigns focused on leadership, legacy, and timeless excellence

Y-3:

• Collaborated on limited edition football-inspired fashion items

• Merged Zidane’s legacy with high fashion and avant-garde design

By Zidane:

• Occasional capsule collections and branded apparel initiatives

• Maintains exclusivity and limited-edition appeal

These collaborations ensure Zidane remains relevant not only in sport, but in global culture and style.

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Automotive and Technology Partnerships

Zidane has been involved in high-profile endorsements with technology and automobile brands, leveraging his appeal to a broad demographic.

Audi:

• Former brand ambassador in Spain, frequently seen in Audi performance series ads

• Participated in promotional test drives and premium campaigns

Orange:

• Partnered with Orange telecommunications, supporting campaigns focused on innovation and connectivity in football

These partnerships reflect Zidane’s alignment with innovation, reliability, and modern performance—values that match his football philosophy.

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Media and Gaming Collaborations

Zidane’s legendary status has also made him a fixture in digital and gaming platforms:

• FIFA video game franchise: Featured as an ICON and FUT Legend in EA Sports’ FIFA Ultimate Team

• Documentaries and licensed films: His life and playing style have inspired critically acclaimed documentaries like “Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait”

• TV and streaming appearances: Occasionally featured in expert panels and interviews for major sports broadcasters

These ventures keep Zidane at the center of pop culture and football nostalgia.

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Business Philosophy: Quality Over Quantity

Zidane’s approach to endorsements and branding has been consistent:

• Only work with brands that match his values

• Maintain long-term partnerships instead of short-term deals

• Emphasize legacy, class, and emotional connection

This strategy has positioned him not as a mere brand ambassador, but as a cultural symbol with timeless appeal.

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Real Estate and Private Investments

Although not publicly detailed, Zidane is known to have:

• Invested in real estate, particularly in Spain and the South of France

• Participated in youth development academies and training centers

• Occasionally engaged in sports innovation and consultancy projects

His post-football income is diversified but consistent with his discreet and thoughtful persona.

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Summary

Zinedine Zidane’s endorsement portfolio and business ventures reflect the same values that defined his playing career: elegance, excellence, and integrity. From global sportswear giants like Adidas to luxury icons like Montblanc, Zidane’s brand continues to inspire trust and admiration across industries.

By focusing on high-value, meaningful collaborations, Zidane has built a post-football empire that extends his influence far beyond stadiums. He remains not just a football legend, but a global business personality and cultural ambassador.