Aulas praised Houllier for the work he had done during the last two years to ensure Lyon continued to be one of Europe's top clubs.

"Gerard (Houllier) asked me on Wednesday night to let him leave so that he could take a sabbatical," Aulas said at a press conference. "On reflexion, I accepted his decision to go."

Saturday's match against relegated Nantes will be his last at the helm of the team.

The former Lens, Paris Saint Germain and Liverpool manager led Lyon to two French league wins and to last year's quarterfinals of the Champions League.

Houllier himself said: "I think we have done very well but it has come to the point where I would need to commit for another three years and it doesn't feel right.

"I think it's better to leave now for a lot of positive reasons rather than to hang on."

Houllier, who denied there was any tensions within the club which brought about his departure, added: "This separation has been amicable and I would like to confirm I have a good rapport with Jean-Michel Aulas."

He said he would not be going to another club. "My decision to leave has nothing to do with people or my health," he continued. "I'm in top form and Lyon has even rejuvenated me. I just need to take stock and I will not be going to other clubs."