Zinedine Zidane has denied that an unhappy Cristiano Ronaldo played any part in his surprise decision to leave Real Madrid after three seasons in charge.

Zidane announced on Thursday that he is leaving the European champions after winning an unprecedented third straight Champions League title.

He was asked at his final press conference whether Ronaldo played any part in his decision, but refuted that suggestion.

“I had the respect of all, above all the players, which has been fundamental in achieving things,” Zidane said. “The players have nothing to do with my decision, it is about what I think.”

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Zidane also said that he had spoken to club captain Sergio Ramos before making his decision.

“The squad already knows,” he added. “I’ve not talked to them all individually but they all know.

“I’ve sent a message to all the squad and I’ve spoken to Sergio Ramos.

“As always as a person and captain, we have lived a lot together, he respects my decision. He wished me luck.

“He is a leader, a captain and it has been a pleasure to share three more years with him.”

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