Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane is plotting an early retirement.
Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has revealed he has no plans to have a long managerial career as he feels the pressure of the La Liga title fight will take it's toll and force him to pack it in early.
Zidane won every trophy possible, including the prestigious Ballon d'Or, during his illustrious playing career.
The former midfielder then turned his hand to management with Real Madrid's Castilla squad.
After two years coaching the B team, Zidane took control of the main squad and won three consecutive Champions League titles.
The Frenchman resigned from his position in 2018 but returned less than a year later after Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari's brief spells at the helm.
Real are in the driving seat to win a tense La Liga title battle against Barcelona this campaign.
But Zidane feels the intensity of managing the Bernabeu outfit could lead to him packing the job in early.
"I won't coach for 20 years. I'll retire before that," Zidane said ahead of Real's clash with Espanyol this tonight.
"I'm an unusual coach, anything could happen. I'm not planning anything. It's the day-to-day that excites me. For how long, I don't know."
"In my head I've always been a player. I played for 18 or 19 years, and after that when people asked me if I'd be a coach, I said no."
"Then I decided to become one. This really wears you out. It won't be 20 years, that's for sure."
Real can go two points clear at the top of the La Liga table with victory over Espanyol tonight.
Barcelona were held to a 2-2 draw away to Celta Vigo yesterday in a damning blow to their hopes.
Los Blancos have conceded just 21 league goals this season and Zidane has hailed his key defensive partnership for building the solid base.
" Ramos and Varane are the best pair around," Zidane said.
"What they do is exceptional. I like to play football, but defence is the most important thing today."
"We have an advantage with the defence we have, and we have players who are committed."
"But defending isn't about four or five players. We've shown strength and attitude as a team."