Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United 'with immediate effect', Portugal star says 'right time for new challenge'

ByIbrahim Mustapha

Updated 22/11/2022 at 20:21 GMT

Cristiano Ronaldo conducted a lengthy and damning interview with Talk TV presenter Piers Morgan last week, slamming Manchester United, accusing them of "betrayal" and taking aim at manager Erik ten Hag. United have said the 37-year-old is to end his second spell at Old Trafford "by mutual agreement, with immediate effect". Ronaldo also spoke, saying it's the "right time to seek a new challenge".

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to leave Manchester United "with immediate effect", the club have announced.

The Portuguese star gave a bombshell interview to Talk TV last week slamming United, claiming the club had "betrayed" him, and also criticised manager Erik ten Hag.

In a statement on their website, United wrote: "Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.

Premier League

Kulusevski says Postecoglou 'makes you brave' - 'Different from any coach I've had'

12/03/2024 at 20:03

"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 a statement, saying: "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.”

Ronaldo, 37, rejoined the Old Trafford club in the summer of 2021, having initially left in 2009 for Real Madrid.

However, after 24 goals in all competitions last season, he started just five Premier League matches this year under their new manager Ten Hag and was subject to disciplinary action after refusing to come on as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Tottenham in October.

The star was also left out of the United squad for the club's final game before the World Cup as they beat Fulham, just hours before the first extracts of his controversial interview were released.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Eric ten Hag

Image credit: Eurosport

Ronaldo's next destination depends on his motivation - Ferdinand

Former Red Devils team-mate Rio Ferdinand, who played with Ronaldo during his successful first spell from 2003, reacted to the news while doing punditry for the BBC and suggested all involved will be pleased with this outcome.

"I think both parties will be delighted. He obviously did that interview with the mindset that he wanted to get out of the football club. He wasn't happy and made it very clear. I also think that Erik ten Hag has got what he wanted as well in this situation.

"Both parties are happy. Move on. Next chapter for Cristiano Ronaldo."

When asked where will Ronaldo go next? Ferdinand replied: "It depends what his motivation is. Is it Champions League? Is it money? Does he just continue playing somewhere with a nice climate?

"This will be panned out and going on behind the scenes but we'll find out I'm sure in due course."

Ronaldo is currently on World Cup duty with Portugal who play their opening game against Ghana on Thursday November 24.

Transfers

Man City's Savio deal faces Premier League 'fair value' scrutiny - Paper Round

06/02/2024 at 22:17

Football

Ronaldo to miss Messi showdown in Riyadh with calf injury

31/01/2024 at 21:24

Transfers

Man Utd duo wanted by Al-Nassr, Benzema wants 'temporary' transfer – Paper Round

24/01/2024 at 08:39