Word stemming from the French media on Sunday suggests that Zinedine Zidane has provided his response to the initial advances of Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain, regarding the club's managerial position.

And the news will come as a blow to those hopeful of seeing the iconic Frenchman patrolling the sidelines of the Parc des Princes next season.

A change on the bench is of course imminent in the French capital, after confirmation was forthcoming earlier today that those in a position of power at PSG have opted to part ways with Mauricio Pochettino.

Despite having only taken up the reins at the club last summer, it was evidently decided that the Argentine's efforts towards breaking PSG's long-standing European curse proved insufficient, with 'Poch' therefore set to become a free agent once more over the coming weeks.

This comes amid a major shake-up in Paris, fresh off Luis Campos replacing Leonardo as football advisor.

So, what next for PSG?

It is widely understood that the aforementioned Zidane has been identified as the first-choice managerial target on the part of those in a position of power at the Parc des Princes.

Reports in France earlier this week even went as far as to suggest that the ex-midfielder had come to an agreement on the terms of a contract with the French champions.

Such suggestions, however, have today been firmly rebuffed. As per reliable French journalist Romain Molina, Zidane was indeed approached by the Paris Saint-Germain hierarchy over recent days.

However, the 49-year-old, perhaps owing to his Marseille roots, is understood to have 'turned down' the opportunity.

Nevertheless, PSG are expected to return with a fresh proposal, keen to sort the situation on the club's bench at some point over the coming week.

Should 'Zizou' stand firm in his rejection, though, an approach is expected to follow for Christophe Galtier in short order, with the OGC Nice boss a favourite of the aforementioned Luis Campos.

 

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