Report: Zidane steps down from 2nd spell as Real Madrid boss

Zinedine Zidane stepped down as Real Madrid manager with immediate effect on Wednesday, according to The Guardian's Fabrizio Romano.

The French legend ended his second spell in charge of Los Blancos just days after finishing second behind bitter rivals Atletico Madrid in La Liga. It's the first season in which the 48-year-old failed to win a trophy as Real Madrid boss.

Zidane's contract was set to expire next year, and he repeatedly failed to commit to returning to the club as the 2020-21 campaign drew to a close.

He previously left Real Madrid in 2018 after leading them to three consecutive Champions League triumphs. He returned less than a year later.

It was reported earlier in May that Zidane informed his players of his decision to depart before the season ended. However, he later denied that.

Reports then emerged last week that Real Madrid were preparing for life without the Frenchman, as Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri and club legend Raul were being linked with succeeding Zidane this summer.

Belgium manager Roberto Martinez is another possible candidate.