BREAKING: Zayn Malik quits One Direction to be a 'normal 22-year-old'
Last week, Zayn Malik quit the One Direction world tour because of "stress". This week, he quit the band.
Yes, you read that right. Zayn has officially left One Direction.
He said in a statement posted on the band's Facebook page: "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."
The band said in a statement: "We're really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future.
"The past five years have been beyond amazing – we've gone through so much together, so we will always be friends.
"The four of us will now continue. We're looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour."
The band, which performed in Singapore earlier this month (March 11) will continue on their world tour as a four-piece and will be recording and releasing a fifth album this year, the Facebook post said.
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