Sources close to the band reveal that Malik was pushed out of One Direction

IT WAS the breakup that was heard around the world. While Zayn Malik says he left the band on his own, new reports suggest he was offered an ultimatum.

HEARTS were broken across the world yesterday morning as One Direction member, Zayn Malik announced he was leaving the most popular boy band in the world.

Initial reports claimed he was departing to get some peace and quiet but is that exactly how it went down?

Radar online are reporting not all is as it seems and Malik did not leave on his own terms. Apparently the 22-year-old was given an ultimatum: get sober, or leave the band.

Evidently, he chose the latter.

“Zayn’s alcohol and drug use became a huge problem,” a source connected to the band told the website.

“They gave him every opportunity to clean up his act, but he just couldn’t do it.”

Zayn Malik was reportedly fired from the band.

Malik released a joint statement with the band on their Facebook page yesterday which framed the departure as an amicable parting after five years together.

“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,” Malik said in the 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 band said.

The announcement came a week after Malik left the band’s world tour and returned home to London.

At the time, Radar quoted a source close to the band saying it was a necessary precaution for the 22-year-old.

“He’s been going down fast and an intervention was needed. It was decided that it was best for him to go and take care of him for right now,” the source said.

As for the band, the show must go on. The other four members have said they will honour their remaining tour dates without Malik and still have plans to release their fifth studio album later in the year.

Originally published as Sources close to the band reveal that Malik was pushed out of One Direction