Real Madrid players react to the departure of Zinedine Zidane

In what can only be called a sorrowing day for Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, the news of manager Zinedine Zidane stepping down reverberated across the world. Here is what the Los Blancos players had to say after the gaffer’s final press conference with Real.

After the “emergency press conference” held Thursday afternoon announcing that the leader of the Madrid first-team would be stepping down, everyone monitoring the situation was anxious to hear what the players would say.

After what can only be called a stretch of success that makes movies, I was not surprised to see almost every Real Madrid player take to social media to thank Zizou for all the lessons learned, and the time spent playing under him.

Here is what they had to say.

"“I didn’t have the pleasure of playing with you brother but I had the immense honor to have you as a coach so I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have given me and taught me. I wish well to you and yours and see you soon.”"

Karim Benzema, as he should have been, hailed Zidane for his time with the club as the two shared a close bond. Zizou kept his faith in Benz all this season despite the number nine struggling to find the back of the net for months at a time.

However, that faith in the striker paid off in the last two Champions League matches of the season as Karim bagged three goals, eclipsing his total from the entire campaign (two before the semifinal).

Toni Kroos joined Real Madrid in the hopes of winning trophy after trophy. After Zizou took the helm in January 2016, he delivered the hardware big time. Toni has now won four UCL titles and three in his four seasons in Spain.

Under Zidane, the German midfielder never played fewer than 2,000 minutes in a La Liga season and quickly became a staple in the three-man midfield in the formation.

"“Mr. Zizou. I learned a lot by your side! I have enjoyed every workout, and every piece of advice! You’re very special to me! You have made history with your work, your dedication, passion and especially with your humility! Thank you, Mister!”"

Another player who blossomed into a world-class talent during Zinedine Zidane’s tenure was Marcelo. While he was already one of the best left-backs in the world upon Zizou’s arrival, he has solidified himself as by far the best in the world.

Playing whenever fit, and now known as the best-attacking fullback, Marcelo did nothing but succeed under the Frenchman.

"“Zidane, just thank you for these 2 and a half years as our coach, you have been an amazing professional like all your staff. I have learned a lot as a player and person at your command, I wish you the best and again thank you, Zidane.”"

Dani was feeling the same thing we as fans were feeling when we heard the news. It is clear that Zizou had a huge impact on the playing careers of these players and was a huge part of why this squad was able to rise to the top of European football three years in a row.

Carvajal is a passionate player, who does everything he possibly can to defend and honor the badge when on the pitch, much like Zizou.

"“I only feel pride about being one of your players. Thank you for everything, coach.”"

Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane got along like peanut butter and jelly. The Portuguese goalscorer always showed his manager respect and the two understood each other very well.

While CR7 may seem like a high-maintenance player, Zizou had no trouble with him. When asked about if Ronaldo’s comments after the UCL Final contributed to why he was leaving, the Frenchman quickly shot the speculation down.

My only fear is that Cristiano might be tempted into leaving now that there will be a new man in charge.

Next: How the pragmatic beast of Real Madrid killed the romantic saint Zinedine Zidane

Sergio played with Zidane in his early days with Real Madrid and he was lucky enough to play for his former teammate. The Captain had an incredible season and an almost telepathic connection with Zizou.

Ramos is right when saying the former manager said goodbye at the top. No one can take that away from him. He will forever be hailed as one of the best managers in the long and illustrious history of this club.

His incredible humility and ability to lead some of the best players in the world to victory repeatedly should be hailed for centuries to come.

Gracias, merci, thank you, Zidane! For everything.

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