Zidane, who played for Real for five years between 2001 and 2006, has been a special advisor to Perez since November 2010. -AP Photo

MADRID: Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has insisted that the Spanish giants' new director of football Zinedine Zidane “has a lot to offer, but still has a lot to learn”.

Mourinho was speaking shortly after Madrid's arrival in Los Angeles at the start of their US tour.

“I like that he is working with us and that he personally decided to change his life and be part of this project,” said the Portuguese coach in an interview with Real Madrid TV.

“He believes in this and thinks he can help. He has a lot to offer, but he also has much to learn.

“It is one thing to be the best player in the world for many years and another to be director of football of the first team at a club as important as Real Madrid.

“His intelligence, calm nature and the fact that he is completely open to communication make him a welcome addition to this group, in which everyone is excited to work together.”

Zidane, who arrived in LA with Mourinho and the squad, replaces Jorge Valdano as director of football.

He previously worked as adviser to the president, Florentino Perez, a role he had occupied since November 2010.