Cristiano Ronaldo will depart Manchester United with immediate effect after the club and the player reached an agreement to end his contract.
Following an explosive interview with Talk TV earlier this month, Manchester United initiated a process that could have resulted in Ronaldo’s dismissal. He accused the club of “betraying” him and stated he had “no respect” for his head coach, Erik ten Hag, in the interview.
Instead of his bosses forcing him out, the 37-year-old agreed to terminate his contract, a move that would undoubtedly cloud his preparations for the World Cup, which Portugal kicks off on Thursday.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” the club said in a statement. “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,” the statement stated.
The contract of Cristiano Ronaldo was set to expire at the end of the season. He is now looking for his fourth club in just over four years.
