Manchester United on Tuesday announced that Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave the club by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.
The forward departs comes days after he lambasted the club and its management in an exclusive interview with broadcaster Piers Morgan.
In a shot statement, United thanked Ronaldo for his immense contribution to the club over two spells at Old Trafford.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” read a club 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.”
Ronaldo also took to social media to confirm his departure from Old Trafford.
“Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early,” read the Portuguese star’s statement.
“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’s first spell at United, from 2003 to 2009, was glorious. He helped them win three Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup™. His second, however, had gone sour. After an impressive first season following a move from Juventus, he scored just one goal in 10 Premier League appearances in 2022/23.
