Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid manager
Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane shocked the football world as he stepped down from his reign at the club. Here’s a look at the press conference and his time with Madrid.
Not even a week after winning the most illustrious title in European Club competition for the third straight year, Zinedine Zidane has stepped down from his position. At 8 AM EST, Florentino Perez called an “emergency” press conference at Real Madrid city. With the world in a fury, many speculated what was to be inevitable.
Presser
Club President Florentino Perez opened up the announcement with some words of his own before passing the mic to Zizou. Perez started off by thanking all those in attendance before getting to the main event. Florentino mentioned that Zidane came to him yesterday, showing the urgency of the situation and unexpectedness of it all.
"“First of all I’d like to thank everyone for being here. As president of Real Madrid I am appearing before you here today alongside Zinedine Zidane, and I would like to let him speak first. Zizou came to me yesterday to inform me of an unexpected decision that he has taken and I think he should be allowed to explain what that decision is and why he has made it. At this moment, I would like to just say that I am standing by him.”"
Zidane then took the mic over and addressed the press. He started by reiterating the words of the President. The former manager made mention that he felt that this move would be best for everyone in the organization. Zinedine felt that after his tenure at the club was over, Real Madrid should start to think in a new way.
Zizou continually expressed gratitude by saying that he, “will remain grateful for the rest of my life.” There’s no doubt that change is always good at a club, but it came as a shock considering Zidane’s incredible success in his short time in charge.
"“As the president said, I have taken the decision to step down as Real Madrid coach. I spoke to him to clarify what I was thinking and I think this is the right moment for all involved: for me, for the squad, for the club… It is a strange moment, but it is an important moment and I had to make this decision for everyone involved.”“This team needs to continue winning and they need a change. After three years they need different ideas, different ways of working and that is why I took this decision. I love this club dearly and I want to thank the president for the opportunity that he gave me to come and play at this club, this great club. I will remain grateful for the rest of my life. Now, however, it is time for change, for me and for everyone, and that is why I have taken the decision not to continue as Real Madrid coach next year.”"
He later spoke about the fun and excitement he has had since being at Real Madrid. He had some words of advice for the squad and how he will be following them and wishes Real Madrid the best of success.
Zinedine was asked if the Ronaldo situation was the reason for his departure which he answered in an acute fashion, “He has nothing to do with my decision.”
Many fans will be happy to hear that Zidane did say that he will not be joining another team any time soon or in the near future. But, the speculation he will be the manager of the French national team after this World Cup just became more likely.
Next: Real Madrid considering signing Atletico Madrid defender José Maria Giménez
Message from The Real Champs
Whatever the case may be for Zidane and wherever his career may lead him, The Real Champs will always be supporting. The site has nothing but gratitude and respect for what he has done in such little time at the club. From a legendary player to a legendary manager, Zidane is pure, legendary.