Zinedine Zidane sent shockwaves through the footballing world when he resigned as Real Madrid manager this week.

Just days after winning a third Champions League title in as many seasons, the Frenchman called time on his reign a year before his contract was due to expire.

In an emotional press conference, Zidane explained: "What I think is that this team needs to continue winning but I think it needs a change, a different voice, another methodology.

"This is the right moment for all involved - for me, for the squad, for the club. I had to do this for everyone."

The decision came five days after star players Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale cast their own futures in doubt with cryptic post-match interviews in Kiev.

Zidane leaves Real Madrid

And it's fair to say Florentino Perez was caught off guard by the decision, noting: "This was a totally unexpected decision. Zidane informed me of his choice yesterday.

"I would love for him to be by my side forever."

Kind words indeed and sentiment matched by the players who uploaded a series of 'thank you' messages across social media. Well, everyone aside from Bale that is.

Zidane's WhatsApp message

The outpouring of love and appreciation has not only emanated from Zidane's success at Real Madrid, but also his attitude and close relationship with the players.

It seems only a few squad members learned to dislike 'Zizou' during his reign.

And it has now been revealed that Zidane gave his private thanks, in turn, to the players upon the announcement. According to Cadena COPE, via Sport, that came in the form of an emotional WhatsApp message.

Zidane penned: “Thanks for everything. Without your support in the worst moments nothing we did would have been possible. We will see each other soon, a hug.”

What a class act.

In the space of two and a half years, Zidane has proven himself to be a fantastic coach and an even better man-manager.

It's not difficult to imagine that large parts of the Real squad have been saddened by his decision to leave the Bernabeu.

Where Zidane will go next is unknown, but he'll have no shortage of suitors after his history spell in the Spanish capital.

You know you're hiring a good manager when they've finished every season with the Champions League trophy. All the best, Zizou!

Who do you think Real Madrid should hire next? Have your say in the comments section below.