Michael Owen admits surprise over Zidane amid Manchester United links

January 8, 2026 Oliver Obel

Michael Owen has offered a candid insight into how some of football’s biggest names surprised him after stepping into management comments that arrive as Manchester United weigh up their next appointment following another unsettled spell at Old Trafford.

United are once again searching for direction after the departure of Ruben Amorim, whose tenure ended shortly after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United. His post-match remarks sparked backlash, bringing an abrupt conclusion to a reign that never fully gained momentum.

Appointed in November 2024, Amorim oversaw 63 matches in charge. His record 24 wins, 18 draws and 21 defeats left him with the lowest win percentage of any permanent manager in the club’s history, prompting United’s hierarchy to act.

With the position now vacant, several familiar names have been linked with the job. Former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been widely tipped as a possible short-term solution, while other reports have pointed towards more ambitious options.

Among them is Zinedine Zidane, a figure whose absence from club management has only added intrigue to the speculation. Speaking exclusively to SPORTbible, Owen admitted that Zidane’s move into coaching was never something he anticipated during their playing days.

“I didn’t think Zidane would,” Owen said. “I was surprised that Rooney did.”

Owen also reflected on how leadership traits are not always obvious during a player’s career.

“I was a little bit surprised that Steven Gerrard did,” he added. “Towards the end of his career he really started becoming a leader, but not at the start. He was quite quiet and shy early on I didn’t see it then.”

Robbie Fowler was another name that caught Owen off guard.

“I didn’t think Robbie Fowler would, but he’s really keen,” Owen said. “He’s had quite a few jobs and really enjoys it.”

Zidane is currently regarded as an outside candidate for the United role. According to widespread European reporting, he could return to Real Madrid should Xabi Alonso depart, or potentially succeed Didier Deschamps as France head coach after the 2026 World Cup.

Any move to the Premier League would represent a significant shift. Zidane won 11 trophies across two spells as Real Madrid manager, including an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles a pedigree that would signal serious intent from United’s board.

Owen also revealed his surprise at another former teammate’s post-playing path.

“Nicky Butt, I probably thought he would,” he said. “But I didn’t think Michael Carrick would, to be honest.”

Whether United opt for familiarity or a bold reset remains unclear, but Owen’s reflections highlight how unpredictable the transition from elite player to manager can be even for those who seemed destined for leadership roles.

Sources: SPORTbible

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