Corresponding author requests to remove an author before publication

Clarify the reason for the change in authorship
Check that all authors agree to remove the author

If all authors agree, then:

Correct, as appropriate, the list of authors and details of contributors (role of each contributor or author) and acknowledgments
Proceed with review or publication

If the authors do not agree, then:

Suspend review or publication of the article until authorship is agreed upon.
Inform the excluded author(s) that if they are not satisfied with the resolution of the case, they must continue the negotiations with their co-authors or their centers, and not with the editor.

It is very important to contact the author(s) whose name(s) is to be removed from the article and obtain their written consent.