The 42-year-old Romanian attributed his decision to the pressures of the post.

He endured a strained relationship with club owner George Becali, who had criticised team selection and threatened to sack Hagi for poor results and defying his orders.

"I could not stand the pressure which has been created around the team," said Hagi, who guided Steaua to the group stage of this season's Champions League, where they lost 2-1 in their opening match against Slavia Prague on Wednesday.

"I cannot describe how this pressure has been," Hagi continued. "It felt like I was being tortured and I am very disappointed.

"I took this decision before the match in Prague, but I could not leave the boys alone ahead such an important match."

Prior to the fixture in the Czech capital, Becali declared: "I want striker Romeo Surdu and midfielder Valentin Badoi to start the match in Prague. Hagi will leave if he fails to make them play."

Badoi started the game but Surdu was named as a substitute, not coming on until the 62nd minute.

That snub combined with Steaua's poor domestic form - they currently sit seventh in the Liga 1 standings - may also have contributed to Hagi's departure.

Becali has already targeted former coach Cosmin Olaroiu as Hagi's replacement.

Olaroiu resigned in the summer and signed a contract with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Becali said: "I wanted to make Hagi a big coach and my biggest regret is that I did not manage this.

"The only coach who can replace him at Steaua is Cosmin Olaroiu, who is like a little brother to me.

"I have not called him yet, but I will do and he will pick up the phone immediately."

Hagi's assistant Massimo Pedrazzini has taken temporary control of the first team.