Breaking: Real Madrid Coach, Zinedine Zidane Resigns

Zinedine Zidane has sensationally resigned as Real Madrid head coach less than a week afterleading the club to their third successive European Cup triumph. 

The 45-year-old announced his departure in a surprise press conference at Real Madrid's training ground on Thursday morning.

Zidane leaves Real Madrid as one of the club's most successful managers having won three Champions Leagues, two Fifa Club World Cups and one La Liga title.

"I've taken the decision to not continue next year as Real Madrid coach," Zidane told reporters.

"This is the right moment for everyone, it might seem a bit strange, but it had to be done for the good of everyone, the players, the club, and myself. This team must keep winning, and it needs a change after three years, another voice, another method of working."

Zinedine Zidane became the first manager in the Champions League era to win three successive European Cups  CREDIT: PA

"I love this club a lot, the president, who gave me everything – to play first at this great club. I’ll always be thankful. Today I need to change, for me, for everyone, for this I’ve taken the decision," Zidane added.

"I wanted him to stay forever and I wanted to convince him to stay. But I know it was his final decision," said Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, who was present alongside Zidane.

On Saturday he became the only manager in the Champions League era to win the trophy for three straight years with the same club.

However Real Madrid endured a disastrous league campaign last season, finishing 17 points adrift of eventual winners Barcelona.