Club statement on Zola

The League Managers Association (LMA) can confirm that Gianfranco Zola and West Ham United Football Club have settled all issues in relation to his departure from the club on 11 May 2010.

A West Ham United statement said: "West Ham United would like to thank Gianfranco Zola for his efforts during his time at the club. We would like to thank both him and the LMA for their professionalism in reaching a satisfactory settlement and we wish Gianfranco well for the future."

Gianfranco Zola said: "I thoroughly enjoyed my time at West Ham United and I will always be very grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to manage in the Barclays Premier League, especially at a club with such a great tradition in positive and attractive football.

"I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of the players, staff and fans who supported me so well during my time at the club and I wish them every success for the future. I would also like to thank the LMA for their support and hard work during the difficult period of my contract termination process. I am looking forward to finding a new challenge in the game and returning to management as soon as possible."

Richard Bevan, Chief Executive of the LMA, said: "The LMA shares Gianfranco's disappointment at him leaving West Ham United but would like to acknowledge the club's assistance in resolving matters quickly and amicably. In his time as a manager Gianfranco demonstrated the passion and enthusiasm for the game that shone through when he was a player.

"He also achieved success in his first season with the Club, guiding West Ham to a ninth-place finish in the Barclays Premier League. He is a talented young manager and I am sure he will be back working in the game, passing on his knowledge and sharing his enjoyment of football with a new group of players."