Manchester United will consider terminating Cristiano Ronaldo's contract following his explosive interview with Piers Morgan.
United are currently looking at the possibility of taking legal action against Ronaldo for a possible breach of contract, which could then result in his current deal being terminated.
A statement from the club on Friday confirmed they have 'initiated appropriate steps' after the final part of Ronaldo's interview was aired on Thursday night.
Read more: United issue new Cristiano Ronaldo statement
The 37-year-old was unavailable for United's match against Fulham on Sunday afternoon due to illness, but he still managed to make headlines and overshadow the 2-1 victory in London when a bombshell interview emerged later that day.
Ronaldo, like all top-flight footballers, signed a Premier League employment contract when he completed his return to United last year.
That agreement states that all employees are obliged to “comply with and act in accordance with all lawful instructions of any authorised official of the club” and are not allowed to “write or say anything which is likely to bring the club… into disrepute… or cause damage to the club”.
United will first have to determine to what extent Ronaldo has breached his contract, if any, though the club have indicated they are aiming to bring the process to a conclusion as swiftly as possible.
If it is determined that Ronaldo has indeed breached his contract, then the club would be within their rights to terminate his deal.
The Manchester Evening News revealed earlier this week that United feel Ronaldo's criticism of their handling of his absence from the pre-season tour has been unfair, while the majority of his teammates feel he should never play for the club again.
Earlier this week, United promised to consider the facts before the full release of the interview. Their statement read: "Manchester United notes the media coverage regarding an interview by Cristiano Ronaldo. The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established.
"Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans."
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