Zinedine Zidane's reason for snubbing Man Utd after making feelings clear on Liverpool

Zinedine Zidane was linked with the Manchester United job after Ruben Amorim's sacking, but the Frenchman has already given a clear indication of whether he would be interested in the vacancy

Zinedine Zidane is currently unattached in management(Image: Getty Images)

Manchester United could face disappointment in its hunt for a Ruben Amorim replacement if it pursues Zinedine Zidane.

The World Cup winner has previously delivered a telling response regarding a potential role at Old Trafford. He's also made his feelings clear on United's biggest rival, Liverpool.

Amorim, 40, has been dismissed as United manager following a 1-1 draw at Leeds on Sunday. In the wake of the match, he hinted he would depart when his contract runs out in 18 months, stating he arrived at United "to be the manager, not the coach," while telling certain board members to concentrate on their own responsibilities.

However, Amorim's exit has arrived far sooner, with the decision taken on Monday.

United remains stuck in sixth place in the Premier League, with just four points separating them from Crystal Palace in 14th. The season bears striking similarities to the 2021/22 campaign, which saw them finish sixth before Erik ten Hag's arrival that summer.

It was around that period when Zidane, who has been without a club since departing Real Madrid in 2021, offered a clear indication about his chances of taking the reins in Manchester.

Ruben Amorim has left Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)

Despite being a highly sought-after candidate for the role, he pointed to one significant obstacle that could prevent any possibility of the move.

Speaking to L'Equipe at the time, he delivered a nine-word answer when specifically addressing United speculation, which may indicate he'll never manage in the Premier League: "I understand English, but I don't fully master it."

He added: "I know that there are coaches who go to clubs without speaking the language, but I work in a different way. Many elements come into play in order to win, it is a global context. I know what I need to win."

From that statement, it would appear Real Zidane wouldn't feel comfortable accepting a position in England unless he had mastered the language.

The former Juventus and Madrid midfielder is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, having won the Ballon d'Or, World Cup, Champions League, Euros, and three league titles.

But Zidane has also established himself as one of the best managers in European soccer since retiring. He's won two La Liga titles with Real Madrid and is the only manager in history to win the Champions League three times in a row.

Speaking about Liverpool back in 2021, Zidane said: "They're a complete team. Some people will mention the three forwards (Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino), and it's true that they're really good, but I think they're a strong, solid unit.

"I'd rather focus on the team. After that, yes, the three forwards are really efficient. We'll have to be alert."