Zinedine Zidane has surprised the footballing world by announcing he will leave Real Madrid this summer.
The Frenchman, 45, is walking away just days after guiding the Spanish giants to an unprecedented third Champions League victory in a row.
Appearing at a press conference alongside Real president Florentino Perez, World Cup winner Zidane said:
"I have taken the decision to not continue going into the next season.
"For me and for everybody, I think the moment to change has arrived. It was not an easy decision.
"I think it's the moment, both for me, the team and the club (to step down).
"It's a strange moment to do so, I know, but an important one too. I had to do this for everyone.
"This side should carry on winning and needs a change for this. After three years it needs another voice, another method of work, for this I took this decision."
In an address which was broadcast on Marca's official Facebook page, Zidane said: "I have taken the decision to not continue going into the next season.
"For me and for everybody, I think the moment to change has arrived. It was not an easy decision.
"I will be close to this club for the rest of my life. I want to thank the fans, who always supported me both as a coach and a player. There were tough moments during the season and although I was sometimes whistled at, I want to thank the fans.
"This is a beautiful moment as we have just won a third straight Champions League and I have now reflected and made this decision. Even the players need this change, I must thank them too."
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