of player quality and would need to be persuaded that he can address the challenges currently plaguing Old Trafford.
Petit emphasized that Zidane would only consider an offer if he’s confident in handling the club’s ongoing issues.
However, doubts about the squad’s strength and possible language barriers may complicate any potential appointment.
Amid rising speculation, Zidane has recently been linked to the managerial role at United, as Erik ten Hag prepares for Brentford with increased pressure following a poor start to the season.
With only three wins in 11 matches across all competitions, and just two from seven in the Premier League, the club is under mounting scrutiny.
Zidane’s name has often surfaced as a possible solution for United, and with Didier Deschamps firmly in charge of the French national team, the rumors have resurfaced.
Despite this, Petit, speaking to the Manchester Evening News, expressed doubt about Zidane making such a move.
He mused over whether Zidane would be willing to leave his comfortable life in Madrid, saying: “I’m not sure that he speaks very good English as well. And communication is very important in the dressing room.”
Since the departure of the iconic Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, Manchester United has struggled to recapture the glory of its past, managing only five top-four finishes. Last season’s disappointing eighth-place finish was their worst in Premier League history.
Although the club has secured five major trophies during this period, including the 2016 Europa League, they have failed to advance beyond the Champions League quarter-finals.
Former French international Emmanuel Petit believes that Zinedine Zidane, viewed by some as a potential savior with United now languishing in 14th place and suffering a three-game goal drought, may not be enticed by the opportunity.
Petit argues that Zidane, who has an impressive managerial track record at Real Madrid, would require significant guarantees before even considering a move to Old Trafford.
He added: “Honestly, I know a little bit, Zizou [Zidane], and he needs to get guarantees if he wants to sign over there in Manchester United. At the moment, the environment at Manchester United for years has not been good.”
He further commented: “Could he manage to overturn the situation over there? I think the only answer is yes. But at the moment, when you look at the team, I’m not convinced at all about the level of some players.
“So if I am Zizou, I think it will be very easy, actually, to answer this question [of joining United]. If I don’t speak English on top of it, that will be more problems in terms of communication in the dressing room.”
“If he takes the job at Manchester United, that means he’s got solutions. At the moment, I’m not sure a lot of people have the solution to turn the situation at Manchester United.”
