Weariness and a lack of board support convinced Zinedine Zidane to walk away from Real Madrid today.
It was announced this morning that Zidane is resigning as coach after a trophyless season.
AS says Zidane had found this campaign draining and felt exhausted in the final weeks after a year of injury problems and team inconsistency.
The Frenchman also rejected president Florentino Perez's request to stay and help rebuild the squad as it would mean several of his most loyal players being told to move on. For his part, Zidane didn't wish to be part of that process.
But the major reason for Zidane to walk was the lack of support and leaks that have come from the board room this season. The multiple Champions League winner has endured doubts about his future being played out in the press for much of the season - something he is sure has come from board members seeking a change in direction.
