The 22 year old singer announced that he will be leaving Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson to continue as a four-piece.

He released a statement saying: "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."

 

Malik signed off One Direction's Asia tour due to stress after photos of him holding hands with another woman were uploaded on her Instagram - sparking rumours that he had cheated on his fiancee, Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards.

He flew home for crisis talks with Edwards, who he has been engaged to for over a year – but she was seen hours later leaving their flat with her bags packed.

 

The band are said to be gutted with Malik's decision, but they will continue as a four piece to record their fifth studio album.

 

 

 

 

They released a statement saying: "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.

 

They added: "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."