Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United with immediate effect.
The decision came after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticized the club and manager Erik ten Hag.
Both parties stated that Ronaldo’s exit was “mutually agreed”.
In a statement the club said, “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.”
In his controversial interview with Piers Morgan, he said that he “doesn’t respect” Ten Hag. He further said that the club had made “zero progress” since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
Ronaldo is in Qatar preparing for Portugal’s first World Cup game against Ghana on Thursday.
Cristiano is free to sign up for another club and will not have to wait until the January transfer window.
“Following discussions with Man United, we have mutually agreed to end our contract early,” Ronaldo said in a statement.
“I adore Manchester United and its supporters, and that will never change.” However, it appears that the time has come for me to seek a new challenge.
“I wish the team the best of luck for the rest of the season and in the future.”
According to ESPN, United was eager to resolve the situation quickly and was prepared to sue for breach of contract if a mutual termination agreement could not be reached.
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