ZINEDINE ZIDANE QUITS

Zinedine Zidane has sensationally quit Real Madrid after landing an historic Champions League hat-trick.

The Frenchman called an unexpected press conference on Thursday afternoon to reveal that he will be leaving after two-and-a-half years in charge.

The 45-year-old, a club legend as player and manager, said he feels this is the right time to go.

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, Chelsea's Antonio Conte and Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino are the early front-runners to take over.

Appearing alongside Real president Florentino Perez, 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.'

Zidane told Perez of his plans on Wednesday. 'I love this club, I love the president,' he said. 'He gave me the opportunity to come as a player and now manager and I am eternally grateful. But we have to change.

'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.' 





MailOnline