Manchester United have announced that they have parted ways with Portugal striker and club icon Cristiano Ronaldo.
The decision came after the Premier League club agreed that it was best to terminate Ronaldo’s contract after his controversial interview with Piers Morgan.
In the interview, the 37-year-old criticised his club and manager, claiming he felt disappointed and disrespected by the club and the manager.
Manchester United released a statement stating they mutually agreed to part ways with Ronaldo.
The statement read: “Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect. The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family well for the future.”
“Everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team’s progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch.”
Ronaldo also released his own statement following the news, writing on social media:
“Following conversations with Manchester United, we have mutually agreed to end our contract early.
“I love Manchester United, and I love the fans; that will never ever change. However, it feels like the right time for me to seek a new challenge.
“I wish the team every success for the remainder of the season and for the future.”
According to a report by Sportsmail, Ronaldo parted ways with £ 16 million due him in payment for six months left in his contract. According to the report, United have not paid any compensation for the remaining seven months of his £500,000-a-week contract at Old Trafford, with Ronaldo agreeing to kart ways without any settlement.
Ronaldo’s story at Old Trafford is now over, but where next for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner?
He is currently with his national team and will likely decide after the World Cup.
Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and MLS side Inter Miami have been the clubs so far linked with him.
