Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United with ‘immediate effect’
Manchester United have confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo will be leaving the club with immediate effect following his controversial Piers Morgan interview.
Issuing an official statement on Tuesday, 22 November, United confirmed that the 37-year-old footballing veteran and sporting icon will be parting ways with the club following a “mutual agreement”.
Ronaldo was expected to be sacked following his inflammatory comments in the now infamous interview and the club are also said to be considering a lawsuit for breach of contract.
It’s unclear whether they will be pursuing legal action following this latest decision.
Writing on the club site, the Red Devils thanked Ronaldo for his “immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances” and wished “him and his family well for the future.”
They went on to add: “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 signed off with his own statement, writing: “I love [Man 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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Despite being away with Portugal for the World Cup, Ronaldo has been at the centre of a storm ever since the interview aired after he took aim at both former and current figures around the club.
United said they were left “extremely disappointed” by his behaviour and denied his claims that they did not offer enough compassionate support following the death of his newborn son as well as his daughter’s illness shortly after.
His image was removed from the front of Old Trafford shortly after.
While it might not be how most Reds would have hoped the club legend’s return would have ended, we imagine many will just be glad the drama has come to an end.
Featured Image — Manchester United (via Twitter)