When Zidane rolled into being the next in line in Perez's circus of Madrid managers, I thought this was that classic case of "Legendary player, not so great a coach."
Zizou has been proving his doubters wrong and with a Clasico win under his belt which pretty much put a dent in Barcelona's cakewalk La Liga campaign and sowed the seeds of their exit at the hands of Atletico, the French maestro could yet have one of the great semi-seasons for a manager. A Champions League final is a reality with the smart dough on Madrid to overcome the inferior Man City in the tale of two legs.
If Madrid end up empty-handed, I will already have to give it up for what Zidane has done. I didn't think he'd be able to make Madrid so effective, attractive to watch but most importantly, actually get the results needed to make a trophy-haul a reality. That is always the name of the game. It's about what you achieve at the end of the season with regards to hardware rather than performances which aren't tangible, nor can they be put up in cabinets on display.
But Zidane is greedy as well as ambitious. Just as how hungry he was on the pitch in his own unique elegant way, he's created a fortress and unity with his Madrid. They are enjoying their football, the individuals are expressing themselves with easy-on-the-eye attacking football that shows Zidane learned a lot working with Ancelotti and there is a real belief that has come out of left field that they can win this Champions League. When Benitez was in charge I didn't put them in the conversation and even when Zidane came into the frame, I was still reluctant to view them as favorites.
With how the chips have fallen and taken a step back to see it all, Madrid have a very good chance to win this. If we are to have a final with them against Bayern, the way in which Zidane has built his team with the speed and progressive nature of theit football; there are ingredients that can take down a Bayern Munich that really ought to have been knocked out by Juventus.
First things first. Madrid have to conquer their Manchester test which will have its challenges. Namely, the very impressive De Bruyne and Zidane must employ his best and most trusted scientists to concoct a plan to put the shackles on De Bruyne. If he is disregarded or not respected, that right there could be Madrid's Champions League hopes going up in black, yellow and red flames.
Imagine...not even the first full season on the job....Zizou...Champions League winner as a manager. HH
Comment below using your Facebook or Twitter Account to Log Into Disqus.
