Manchester United have removed a huge mural of Cristiano Ronaldo from the front of Old Trafford so that it can be replaced with Rugby League World Cup branding ahead of this weekend.
Cranes have been at United's ground on Wednesday to help with the removal of the Ronaldo poster from the Old Trafford forecourt, on the day the first part of his bombshell interview with Piers Morgan is due to air.
But it is understood the poster was always due to be removed this week, with the stadium hosting the final of men's and women's Rugby League World Cup on Saturday.
READ MORE: Most United players believe Ronaldo will never play for the club again
The giant space above the megastore at the forecourt will now feature branding ahead of that showpiece final, with Australia and New Zealand meeting in the women's final at 1.15pm and Australia facing Samoa in the men's final at 4pm.
Pictures of the poster of Ronaldo being torn down have attracted attention after it emerged he had given an incendiary interview to Piers Morgan, which will air in full across Wednesday and Thursday night on TalkTV.
The first clips of the interview were released on social media on Sunday night and featured Ronaldo accusing the club of "betraying him" and the forward saying he had no respect for Erik ten Hag.
The interview dropped just hours after United had beaten Fulham 2-1 in their final Premier League game before the season takes a break for the World Cup. Ronaldo is now in Qatar with his Portugal teammates ahead of the tournament starting on Sunday.
United issued a statement on Monday after the first clips appeared from the interview. It 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."
Asked if United were trying to force him out, Ronaldo told Piers Morgan Uncensored: "Yes. Not only the coach, but two or three other guys around the club."
Asked if they were at senior executive level, Ronaldo continued: "Yes. I felt betrayed. Honestly, I shouldn't say that, I don't know. But I don't care, people should listen. I feel betrayed and I felt that some people didn't want me here, not only this year but last year too."
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