OFFICIAL: Zidane leaves Real Madrid

Real Madrid announced this morning that coach Zinedine Zidane has left the club. Reports about Zidane’s decision were published on Wednesday night and the news were confirmed when Madrid published the following statement:

Real Madrid C. F. announces that Zinedine Zidane has decided to bring an end to his current spell as head coach of our club.

We must now respect his decision and express our gratitude for his professionalism, dedication and passion over the years and what he means to Real Madrid.

Zidane is one of Real Madrid’s great icons and his legacy extends beyond what he has achieved as a coach and player at our club.

He is aware that he has a place in the hearts of the Real Madrid fans and that he will always have a home at Real Madrid.

Real Madrid confirmed that this was Zidane’s decision and not the club’s, meaning that Madrid probably wanted Zidane to continue.

Los Blancos will now have to appoint Zidane’s successor, with Massimiliano Allegri and Antonio Conte being the favorites for the job, according to reports from the Spanish press. Club legend and Castilla coach Raul will likely be Madrid’s choice to coach the club if needed during next season.