Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid boss, five days after leading the Spanish giants to a third straight Champions League title.
The 45-year-old announced his departure in a surprise press conference at Real Madrid’s training ground on Thursday morning.
Zidane leaves Real Madrid as one of the club’s most successful managers having won three Champions Leagues, two Fifa Club World Cups and one La Liga title.
What he said
“This is the right moment for everyone, it might seem a bit strange, but it had to be done for the good of everyone, the players, the club, and myself. This team must keep winning, and it needs a change after three years, another voice, another method of working.”
“I love this club a lot, the president, who gave me everything – to play first at this great club. I’ll always be thankful. Today I need to change, for me, for everyone, for this I’ve taken the decision.”
He also noted that he would be taking a break from football after leaving Real Madrid and would not be interested in taking a new role: “I’m not going to coach next season. I’m not looking for another team.”
