The 43-year-old says his awareness knowing exactly what to say at the right moment is crucial to motivating his stars
Zinedine Zidane believes knowing when to stay silent is the key to getting the best out of his Real Madrid players.
Madrid are unbeaten in the eight matches played since the former France international succeeded Rafael Benitez as head coach at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Multiple stars including Cristiano Ronaldo have since stated that the squad felt they had a better sense of understanding with Zidane than they enjoyed under Benitez.
And the Frenchman has underlined the trait that has enabled him to be an expert in motivating the biggest names in his squad.
"As a coach I think I know what the players need, the moments in which they require you to be present," he told GQ.
"Simply being next to them can be enough and you don't have to say too many words on certain problems.
"Sometimes, communicating well is knowing when to shut up. And that's something I do well.
"I know what I want. It's difficult, but I'm capable of getting it."
Despite Zidane's success since taking over, Madrid head into Saturday's derby with city and title rivals Atletico Madrid trailing La Liga leaders Barcelona by nine points.
- Goal