Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has said that success at the club depends more on managing relationships in the dressing room than on tactical expertise.
The French football icon, who oversaw one of the most successful eras in Real Madrid’s history, explained that any coach who fails to earn the trust and backing of the players is unlikely to survive long at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Speaking on Hamidou Msaidie’s YouTube channel, Zidane said his philosophy at Madrid was built around understanding players and putting their needs first.
“At Real Madrid, we were at the service of the players,” Zidane said, as quoted by GOAL.
“For me, that’s what makes a team strong — being there for the player. If you don’t understand that, you won’t last in this job.”
He stressed that players must feel supported and confident if a coach expects full commitment both on and off the pitch.
“Our role is to help them. You have to show them you’re there for them. For the dressing room to buy into your ideas, the players need to like you,” he added.
Zidane also referenced the departure of former Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso, suggesting it was linked to difficulties in handling the dressing room.
According to him, Alonso struggled to gain the players’ support and ended up facing an almost unwinnable challenge at a club of Madrid’s stature.
He noted that once players begin to doubt training methods or the overall direction of the team, problems are inevitable.
“If the players don’t fully agree with what you put in place — the training, the ideas — then something will always be lacking,” Zidane said.
Reflecting on his own time at the club, Zidane explained that his priority was creating an atmosphere where players felt happy, confident and motivated.
“I think they really enjoyed themselves with us at every level. We gave them a lot of confidence,” he said.
He added that during difficult periods, his coaching staff focused on helping players rediscover both their fitness and self-belief.
“When a player is motivated, enjoys training and looks forward to matches, that’s how you end up winning three Champions Leagues,” Zidane added.
Zidane coached Real Madrid in 263 matches across two spells, cementing his status as one of the most successful managers in the club’s history.
During his tenure, he led the team to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles and two La Liga crowns — achievements that continue to define his legacy.
His remarks underline a long-held belief at Real Madrid: effective man-management can be just as important as tactical brilliance.