"It is with heavy heart that I'm writing this message," France's former World Cup winner posted on Instagram on Thursday.

"The last year has been an extremely difficult one for me personally. Due to the worldwide pandemic I was unable to see my children.

"Unfortunately due to the ongoing restrictions and the fact we will have to relocate to the US again for several months (at least) will be no different.

"The separation is too big of a strain for me and my kids. Therefore it is with much sadness that I must take the decision to return to London and leave CF Montreal."

Montreal was Henry's second job as head coach, having spent just over a year at Ligue 1 side Monaco from 2018.

He signed a two-year contract with the Canadian club in November 2019.

Montreal sports director Olivier Renard said: "Thierry's departure is unfortunate and premature because it was very promising.

"I would like to thank him, first of all in human terms, because he showed the example last year by being away from his family, but also in sporting terms for what we have built together upon his arrival."

Henry had been heavily linked with the job at English Championship side Bournemouth earlier this month before interim boss Jonathan Woodgate was given the role until the end of the season.

Australian Associated Press