Reasons to stay in a marriage.

? huh?

I'm not sure if you are talking about a hypothetical situation?

But yes, there are reasons for a man (or woman at that matter) to stay in a marriage & it not be for love.
Financial reasons.
The kids.
Family expectations.
Religious beliefs.
Social status.
Employment/job status reasons. (Usually political type jobs).

Etc.

True, I would rather stay in a marriage because I still love my mate, but , yes, there are other reasons that some people stay in a marriage without romantic love.

So why does that mean he lied?

Maybe he really meant it at the time. He maybe no longer loved his wife, but wanted to stay in the marriage for his kids.

Then, later down the road, they were not getting along well at all? If there was a bunch of fighting & yelling, then... again... it would be better for the kids if they split.

But, you are not telling a whole tale. THere is too much unknown.
For instance, he meant to stay with her for kids.. then years later found she cheated.... Or years later , he cheated... Or years later just got sick of her & wanted out...

You are giving no wiggle room for someone who may have very well meant what he said at the time.. that he wanted to stay in marriage for the kids.

Just because I hate to watch basketball... Don't hold me to never watching basketball again in my life. Who knows, maybe someday I'll come to love the game.

I'm just saying, people have been known to change their views/opinions on life matters.