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Zayn Malik speaks out for first time since leaving One Direction

Zayn Malik has spoken for the first time since quitting One Direction saying he was upset to have let fans down but that it wasn't "real" to him anymore.

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Zayn: 'I have to do what feels right in my heart'

Zayn Malik has said that after five years in the spotlight it is "the right time" for him to leave boyband One Direction and commented in a Facebook post that he has "to do what feels right."

Zayn Malik said it is 'the right time' for him to leave the band Credit: NIKKI SHORT/AAP/Press Association Images

The 22-year-old's comments were posted on Facebook this afternoon as part of an official statement released by the band to confirm his departure.

He wrote:

"My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band.

"I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight.

"I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world."

– Zayn Malik
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Zayn Malik speaks out for first time since leaving One Direction

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