Zinedine Zidane has named the only three clubs that he'd choose to manage, according to a former team-mate of the Frenchman. 

Zidane, 51, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 however still remains a sought-after talent - with Man United reportedly interested in his services.

Reports have claimed that Sir Jim Ratcliffe - who recently acquired a 27.7% stake in the club - wants to make Zidane United's next permanent manager.

However, despite the British billionaire's wishes, United may have to look elsewhere after a former Real Madrid team-mate of Zidane revealed his three-club wishlist. 

Former Denmark star Thomas Gravesen spoke to Discovery+ about the Frenchman and recalled a conversation they had two years back. 

Zinedine Zidane named the only three clubs that he'd manage, claims a former team-mate

He said: 'I spoke to Zidane in Madrid two years ago and he told me that there are only three roles that he would like to accept. 

'And they are Marseille, Madrid and the French team. We were in Madrid two years ago and he told me exactly that. 

'I also asked him if 'I was willing to train again. And there he told me that there were possibilities only for those three'.

Gravesen then addressed the rumours that Zidane could move to Old Trafford and suggested it's 'very difficult to do something' with the current United team. 

He continued: 'I would say that the team he had in Madrid was fantastic, and he was prepared from the beginning. 

'In the United the situation is different, it is very difficult to do something with the team that Ten Hag has at the moment.'

Madrid remain the only team Zidane has managed since retiring from his legendary playing career in 2006 after that year's FIFA World Cup.

The 51-year-old first began his management career with Real Madrid's B team before being promoted into the first-team position in 2016 and re-appointed to the role in 2019. 

Zidane's outstanding success delivered Madrid two LaLiga and Spanish Super Cup titles, three Champions League's and other major team honours.

His second managerial spell in Spain's capital came to a disappointing end as Zidane sought to leave following a league title race that Madrid lost out in to Atletico on the final day of the season.

United want to tempt the France World Cup winner to Old Trafford in the summer and believe he can help build a long-term project of success at the club.