The former Chelsea and England defender believes it is the right time to take the next step in his managerial career after spending three years at Villa Park.
During the Englishman’s time with the Villans, he helped the Birmingham-based club to return to the English topflight in the 2019/2020 season and consolidated their position in the Premier League.
In a lengthy message written by Terry on his Instagram page, the legendary defender thanked everybody at Villa for making his stay there a momentous one.
“It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to have spent these last three years at Aston Villa, but I feel now is the right time to make the extremely difficult decision to move on,” he wrote.
“I want to be as respectful to the manager and everyone at Aston Villa as I can and, having given my future serious consideration over the summer, I genuinely don’t feel it is fair to move into a new season without being certain of seeing that through.
“My immediate plan is to spend some quality time with my family and, thereafter, hopefully take up some invitations to visit clubs and managers around Europe to develop my aim and objective of becoming a manager.
“It has always been my ambition to move into football management and, providing the right opportunity presents itself, I feel ready to take up such a challenge.
“I would like to thank Christian Purslow and our owners, Wes Edens and Nassef Sawiris, for believing in me and giving me the opportunity.
“And I will forever be indebted to the Gaffer for giving me the opportunity to start my coaching career at such a wonderful club. I have loved every minute of it and learned so much.
“I can’t thank Dean enough for the support and guidance he has provided me with, and I’m sure he will continue to lead the club from strength to strength.
“Finally, I would also like to thank all the players and staff and wish them all the very best for the season ahead and say a huge thank you to the wonderful Aston Villa fans for their support.”