Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United, the club has confirmed.
The forward, who is currently in Qatar for the World Cup with Portugal, had slammed the club in a tell-all interview with Piers Morgan on the eve of the tournament.
The 37-year-old had returned to the club in October 2021 but had come under fire for his attitude in recent months amid rumours of a rift between him and manager Erik Ten Hag. In the interview with Morgan, Ronaldo said that he did not respect the coach, and claimed "zero progress" had been made at the club since he left for Real Madrid in 2009.
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A statement from the club on Tuesday evening 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."
Following the announcement, Ronaldo released his own statement, writing: "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."
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