With Zinedine Zidane circling, three reasons why Jose Mourinho needs to look over his shoulder

#1 Zinedine Zidane has the pedigree and pull factor for success

Jose Mourinho must look over his shoulder at Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane was a curious choice for Real Madrid manager when he was appointed in 2016 to replace experienced coach, Rafa Benitez after just a few months in charge.

Madrid followed the blueprint that had earned Barcelona such rich success when they appointed Pep Guardiola as manager after he had coached the Barcelona B team. Zidane got the nod after a spell managing Madrid's C team.

However, Zidane soon proved any doubters wrong as he won eight major trophies in just two and a half years as boss, including three consecutive European Cups, La Liga and two Club World Cups.

Zidane had the buy-in from his squad from day one and thanks to his hugely successful spell as boss of the Spanish giants, has a greater ability today than Jose Mourinho to attract world-class stars.

With the United board unwilling to back Mourinho in the transfer market, perhaps the club are holding funds back for his successor.

Mourinho has cause to be worried. He has to be successful in 2018-19 as his future depends on it. Mourinho was waiting in the wings during Van Gaal's final season as boss, now the boot is on the other foot. Mourinho must find a way to avoid the same fate as his predecessor.