Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has insisted he doesn't need to "take a side" on the Cristiano Ronaldo situation.
Portugal star Ronaldo has left United by mutual agreement, with his contract terminated just days after an interview aired in which he criticised the club. Fernandes played with the veteran for club and country, and the pair are expected to both be involved for Portugal's World Cup opener against Ghana.
The Euro 2016 champions will begin their campaign on Thursday, with Fernandes speaking to the media ahead of the game. Naturally, the former Sporting star was asked about his international colleague.
“I don’t feel uncomfortable. I don’t have to pick a side,” Fernandes said. “It was a dream come true to play with Cristiano [at Manchester United ] but nothing lasts forever."
Fernandes joined Man Utd from Sporting in January 2020, and has since become a key man for the club. Ronaldo joined his compatriot at Old Trafford in the summer of 2021, but has failed to see out his two-year deal.
The 37-year-old goes into the World Cup looking to extend his record as the highest international scorer in men's football history. After the tournament ends, though, he will be on the lookout for a new club.
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"Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect," a statement from the club read. "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 himself also issued a statement on the matter. "Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early," he said.
"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 was United's top scorer in his first season back at Old Trafford after 12 years away, scoring 18 times in the league and 24 in all competitions. However, he has netted just three times this term, once in the league and twice in the Europa League.
The veteran pushed for an exit over the summer, only for a number of potential suitors - including Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich - to rule out moves at the time. He is now free to look for a new club ahead of the January transfer window, while United will begin their search for a replacement.
