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Türkiye's Fenerbahce has reportedly reached a preliminary deal with French legend Zinedine Zidane to fill the vacancy left by Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho, the Turkish media reported Saturday.
Zidane, 53, is understood to have given a positive response in principle, with discussions focusing on salary and contract details. Once these talks conclude, he could travel to Türkiye to take charge of the Istanbul club.
On Aug. 29, Fenerbahce parted ways with Jose Mourinho following their failure in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers against Benfica and his harsh criticism of the players and the club’s board.
Fenerbahce management had also considered other names for the position. Club Vice President Hamdi Akin previously held talks with Turkish coach Ismail Kartal, the only domestic candidate under discussion. Kartal indicated his readiness to take the role but was awaiting the final decision from club president Ali Koc.
Sporting director Devin Ozek reportedly made presentations on several foreign managers, including Ange Postecoglou, Luciano Spalletti, and Domenico Tedesco. Among them, Spalletti declined the offer, citing a wish to spend more time with his family.
Reports indicate that Koc favors entrusting the team to an internationally recognized coach rather than a domestic option. Club officials believe that Zidane, who also enjoyed a celebrated playing career, could fit this profile if contract negotiations are finalized, according to Sabah daily.
Zidane is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, achieving major success with leading clubs such as Juventus and Real Madrid. He won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2000 with France, and lifted the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid in 2002.
After retiring, he turned to coaching and guided Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, as well as two La Liga championships during his two managerial spells at the Spanish club.
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