Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid manager

Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid manager

Zinedine Zidane has stepped down as manager of Real Madrid.

The 45-year-old took over from Rafa Benitez in January 2016 and, despite boasting no previous senior managerial experience, has masterminded Real's domination of the Champions League.

Zidane has guided his side to three successive wins in Europe's elite club competition, the most recent of which came last Saturday following a 3-1 win over Liverpool in Kiev.

Zinedine Zidane | Managerial Honours

La Liga: 2016-17[188]

Supercopa de España: 2017

UEFA Champions League: 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18

UEFA Super Cup: 2016, 2017

FIFA Club World Cup: 2016, 2017

Speaking after the victory over Jurgen Klopp's side, Zidane appeared to be preparing for his departure, saying: 'This is a legendary club.

'This is a club that has won 13 European Cups so I'm happy to be part of this history.

'We are going to think about what we achieved, enjoy the moment first. This is the most important thing now.'

Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid manager

After taking several days to reflect, Zidane has opted to call time on his trophy-laden two-and-a-half year tenure: 'I love this club, I love the president.

'He gave me the opportunity to come as a player and now manager and I am eternally grateful.

'But we have to change.

President Florentino Perez added: 'After winning the Champions League, the decision was unexpected. It is a sad day for me, the fans and the players. But he knows I wanted him as a player and as a manager.

Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid manager

'I wanted him to stay forever and I wanted to convince him to stay. But I know it was his final decision. All I want to do is remind him that this club is his home and family.

'I went to his house yesterday to see if he was prepared. He told me that he was convinced he wanted to go. I want to thank him for his commitment and passion to Real Madrid.

'His behaviour has always been an example for all and representative of Real. I don't want this to be a goodbye but a 'see you soon'. I have no doubt he will come back soon.'

Comments

Keep up to date with our latest articles and uploads...