Inter Milan, one of the most storied clubs in Serie A history, is reportedly in preliminary talks with legendary French coach Zinedine Zidane to take over the managerial reins, potentially replacing the current head coach Cristian Chivu.

This surprising development is said to have been initiated at the behest of Inter’s influential captain, Lautaro Martinez, whose growing leadership role within the club has recently become more pronounced.

The news has sent ripples through the football world, with fans and analysts speculating on the potential new direction the Nerazzurri might take under Zidane’s stewardship.

The rumors surrounding Zidane’s possible arrival at San Siro come amid a turbulent period for Inter Milan.

Cristian Chivu, who was appointed head coach just a month ago, has struggled to stabilize the team following a disappointing exit from the FIFA Club World Cup.

Inter’s 2-0 defeat to Fluminense in the round of 16 exposed vulnerabilities within the squad, triggering public criticism from none other than Lautaro Martinez himself.

The captain’s candid remarks, which appeared to single out teammates such as Hakan Calhanoglu and Marcus Thuram for their lack of motivation, stirred tensions in the locker room and placed Chivu in a challenging position as he tried to mediate and restore harmony among the players.

Martinez, a pivotal figure in Inter’s recent successes, has long been recognized as a natural leader both on and off the pitch.

His frustration following the FIFA Club World Cup loss, during which he urged disengaged players to consider leaving the club, underscored his desire for a fully committed squad aligned with Inter’s lofty ambitions.

According to sources close to the club, Martinez has personally advocated for Zidane’s appointment, convinced that the Frenchman’s vast experience and commanding presence could reinvigorate the team.

Zidane, who has been out of coaching since departing Real Madrid in 2021, is widely regarded as a figure capable of restoring Inter’s competitive edge after a season that saw the club finish second in both Serie A and the UEFA Champions League.

The prospect of Zidane taking charge would represent a bold statement of intent from Inter Milan.

The 53-year-old Frenchman is celebrated as one of the finest managers of his generation, having led Real Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, alongside two La Liga championships.

Zidane’s proven ability to manage star-studded squads and deliver results under immense pressure makes him an attractive candidate for a club eager to overcome recent setbacks.

His tactical expertise—particularly his skill in balancing offensive creativity with defensive solidity—could complement Inter’s current roster, which features talents like Lautaro Martinez, Marcus Thuram, and promising newcomer Ange-Yoan Bonny.

However, the negotiations remain in their infancy and face several hurdles.

Despite the rocky start, Cristian Chivu still retains the support of certain players and club officials who appreciate his efforts to navigate the post-Inzaghi transition.

His emergency meeting in Charlotte following the Calhanoglu-Martinez dispute was reportedly well received, and his prior working relationship with players like Bonny, forged during their time at Parma, has helped bolster his standing within the squad.

Additionally, Zidane is believed to be hesitant about returning to management unless the club’s project aligns perfectly with his vision, a factor that could complicate proceedings.

Inter’s president, Beppe Marotta, is reportedly keen to avoid rushing into a decision, especially with the new season looming.

Lautaro Martinez’s role in championing Zidane’s candidacy highlights his increasing influence at Inter.

The Argentine striker, admired for his loyalty during challenging periods, remains a cornerstone of Chivu’s rebuilding efforts.

Yet, his public outburst and subsequent reconciliatory interviews with teammates suggest a dressing room in flux, possibly in need of a unifying figure of Zidane’s stature to inspire and galvanize the squad.

The captain’s call for change has divided opinion: some fans and commentators applaud his passion and commitment, while others worry that his comments may have unsettled team morale.

Financial considerations also weigh heavily on the decision-making process.

Hiring Zidane would likely entail a substantial financial commitment, including a lucrative contract and a significant transfer budget to acquire players suited to his tactical system.

While Inter’s recent compliance with UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations provides some flexibility, the club must carefully balance the costs of a managerial overhaul against the benefits of continuity under Chivu.

Transfer rumors involving targets such as Genoa’s Koni de Winter and potential departures like Lazio’s Nicolò Rovella indicate that Inter is already contemplating squad changes that could align with Zidane’s footballing philosophy, should he be appointed.

As the transfer window progresses, football followers worldwide will watch closely to see whether Inter can secure Zidane’s services.

Lautaro Martinez’s backing adds momentum to the negotiations, but the ultimate decision rests with the club’s leadership.

Whether Zidane takes over or Chivu is granted more time to prove his worth, Inter Milan’s immediate future promises to be a compelling chapter in the club’s illustrious history.

For now, supporters can only wait and speculate as the Nerazzurri navigate this critical juncture.