Zidane: a gamble worth the risk?

 Zinedine Zidane, arguably one of the best footballers in history, has been appointed to replace Rafael Benítez as Real Madrid's new manager. Zidane's legacy is eternal both as a French national team legend as well as a Real Madrid icon. Now he is embarking on a new challenge that doesn't always end well for previous players, in this case, a legend of the game.

Not so often will you hear the names Pelé and Maradona without the mentioning of Zidane's. That being said, we have already witnessed the managerial failure of Diego Maradona's campaign as he tried to lead a star-filled Argentina squad to World Cup glory in 2010. If anything it shows that being a genius on the field is one thing, and coaching a team of high caliber is another.

Many are questioning the readiness of Zinedine to take over as head coach of Real Madrid. Which is quite understandable, given the little coaching experience he has. "Zizou"has been in charge of Real Madrid Castilla ever since "La Décima" was lifted in Lisbon, back when Zinedine himself was Ancelotti's assistant. 

However Zidane's time alongside the Italian tactician Carlo Ancelotti proved the Frenchman's positive impact in the dressing room. His charisma and winning attitude were major additions that contributed to one of Real Madrid's most successful seasons in the last decade, as Real Madrid won the double.

The 1998 World Champion's job will be difficult this season since Rafa Benitez left him a team already disqualified from the Copa del Rey competition, as well as trailing behind Atletico Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga's title race.

One thing we have learned about the current Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, is that no manager is granted immunity from facing the axe if they fail to meet the very high standards set at Real Madrid. Even a club icon such as Zinedine Zidane could end up being sacked if he doesn't bring home silverware. Patience is not a word in Florentino's dictionary. 

This is also becoming the case in other prestigious European clubs, When a new manager is introduced, instant success is demanded. The question is can the three time FIFA World Player of the Year bring it?

Perhaps this mid season managerial swap can save the season for Real Madrid and maybe even lead to a UEFA Champions League triumph, similar to Chelsea's 2012 campaign when when Roberto Di Matteo replaced André Villas-Boas.

A gamble worth the risk? 

Only time can tell.