Real Madrid have on Thursday confirmed that Zinedine Zidane has decided to step down as the club’s manager, despite still having 12 months left to run on his contract.
The 48-year-old Frenchman puts an end to a second stint in charge of Los Blancos that has yielded a LaLiga Santander title and a Supercopa de Espana.
Real Madrid finished second in La Liga this season with city rivals Atletico Madrid claiming the league title.
AS reports that Zidane earlier asked for a few days to reach a decision over his future after the final league match of the season against Villarreal.
The Frenchman then on Wednesday informed the club that it was indeed his intention to leave, according to the top football site.
Announcing his coach, the Liga giants in a statement on their official website said;
Real Madrid CF announces that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his current spell as coach of our club.
It is now time to respect his decision and show him our appreciation for his professionalism, dedication and passion in all.
Zidane is one of the great myths of Real Madrid and his legend goes beyond what he has been as a coach and player of our club.
He knows that he is at the heart of Real Madrid and that Real Madrid is and will always be his home.
Comunicado Oficial: Zinedine Zidane.#RealMadrid
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) May 27, 2021
Real Madrid’s hierarchy now have ample time to find a suitable replacement ahead of the summer transfer window.
It remains to be seen who will take over from Zidane in Real Madrid with Massimiliano Allegri, Raul Gonzalez, Joachim Low being leading contenders for now.
Antonio Conte is also available having left Inter Milan by mutual consent on Wednesday.
