Zidane signs new deal at Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane says he has signed a new contract to continue as Real Madrid manager.

The Frenchman was appointed as Real Madrid manager in January 2016, and has won two Champions League and the La Liga title during his 18 months in charge at the Bernabeu.

The 45-year-old managed Real's B team before replacing Rafael Benitez last year to become Florentino Perez's 11th coach in his 12 years as club president.

In August, Zidane confirmed that a new three-year deal with the European champions had been agreed, but the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 winner has now confirmed that he has put pen to paper on the contract.

"In terms of the renewal, it's already done," said Zidane.
"I care about the day to day and I'm not looking further than that."

Real Madrid are expected to officially announce the new deals for Zidane and striker Karim Benzema later on this week.

Real Madrid host Real Betis in the defence of their La Liga title on Wednesday, and Zidane says Gareth Bale still needs time to hit full form despite the Welshman's fine strike in Sunday's 3-1 victory at Real Sociedad.

Bale was sidelined for four months last season with ankle ligament damage, and Zidane says the 28-year-old is not yet fully match fit.

"I have always said we need to have patience with him," Zidane added.

"We know how good he is if he is completely fit, but he will need time and we will see that.

"It will still take more time to see the best of Gareth, but he is already doing very well."