Marcello Lippi is to stand down as coach of Serie A giants Juventus at the end of the season, the coach announced at a press conference.

His decision comes only a month after club director Luciano Moggi denied reports that Juventus were looking for a new manager.

“It’s been a fantastic story but I think the moment to move on has arrived,” Lippi said.

Juventus are lying third in the table, 13 points off leaders Milan and they were knocked out of the second round of this season’s Champions League.

Lippi, 45, has been linked with Real Madrid position and there are bound to be a number of high-profile job offers coming his way overthe next few months.