French football legend Zinedine Zidane was in attendance at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday night to watch Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League first leg of the quarterfinals.
The former Real Madrid player and manager, who has maintained close ties to the club, appeared in the stands as the two European powerhouses renewed their storied rivalry. However, it was not the result he would have expected at home.
Zidane spotted at Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich UCL clash
The 1998 World Cup winner was captured observing the high-stakes quarter-final at the Bernabue which ended in favour of the German side. All thanks to goals from Luis Diaz and Harry Kane, as Kylian Mbappe’s strike was not enough to save the 15-time UCL winners ahead of the away clash at Allianz Arena.
Meanwhile, Zidane’s sighting comes amid growing speculation about the Frenchman’s future, as he has been without a managerial role since departing Real Madrid in 2021. His appearance at the Bernabéu underscores his enduring connection to the club where he enjoyed immense success both as a player and coach, winning multiple Champions League titles.
Zidane is widely expected to succeed Didier Deschamps as France national team head coach following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Reports from March indicate he has already reached a verbal agreement with the French Football Federation (FFF) for the position. The 53-year-old’s visit to Madrid comes as he continues to be linked with elite-level opportunities while awaiting his formal appointment with Les Bleus.
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