Real Madrid have confirmed the departure of Zinedine Zidane, saying it is “time to respect” the decision of a manager who has won the Champions League three times and La Liga twice with the club. Zidane’s exit follows a disappointing season for Madrid, who lost out to Atlético Madrid in a title race that went to the final day. Real Madrid were also knocked out of the Champions League by Chelsea in the semi-finals as they failed to win a trophy for the first time in 11 seasons. “Zidane is one of the greats of Real Madrid and his legend goes beyond what he has been as a coach and player for our club. He knows that he is at the heart of Real Madrid and that Real Madrid is and will always be his home.”Zidane had a first spell in charge of Madrid from January 2016 to May 2018 and returned in March 2019.

Source: The Irish Times May 27, 2021 06:47 UTC