Potential Zinedine Zidane Replacement Says Real Madrid Is His Home

Raul has dropped the biggest hint yet that he wants to take over as Real Madrid boss from Zinedine Zidane, saying the first team is his home.

Despite the fact that Real are still in a battle with neighbours Atletico Madrid, and to some extent Barcelona, to become La Liga champions, Zidane is expected to leave the club this summer.

On Sunday it was reported that the three time Champions League winning manager has already told his players that he won't be at the club next season.

That's started rumours about who could replace the former Real midfielder an ex teammate Raul is amongst those who have been linked with the job.

The club's second all time top goalscorer is currently managing the Castilla team but on Sunday hinted that he wants to take over from Zizou.

"That's [the senior side] my home and that's where I want to be," the 43-year-old said when asked about potentially becoming the manager.

"I'm a man of the club. I became a coach to be at home."

Raul is currently managing the Castilla side that Zidane managed before his promotion to the first team. Image: PA Images

"But this is not the time to talk about the future. The team is still competing. Today Madrid will win, so they'll still be in the title race next week. When everything is over, it'll be time to see what happens in the future."

Zidane's departure has not been officially confirmed, but MARCA claim that the manager told his players after the loss against Chelsea in the Champions League and before the draw with Sevilla of his decision.

He reportedly told the players he had thought 'long and hard' about the decision and felt it the best time to leave the club.

Ahead of the Athletic Bilbao game this weekend, Zidane told his press conference, "There are times when you need to be there and times when you have to leave for the good of all."

Zidane and Raul battle Roy Keane during their playing days. Image: PA Images

Raul is reportedly on the shortlist to take over, with former Juventus manager Max Allegri believed to be the current favourite.

Real's title race is likely to come down to the final day of the season against Atleti, with Diego Simeone's side currently in the driving seat.

The 2014 champions need to win their final two games, against Osasuna and Valladolid to confirm the title, whilst Los Blancos need their cross city rivals to drop points.

Topics: Football, Raul, Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid, La Liga

Ryan Sidle

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