Cristiano Ronaldo has issued a statement after Manchester United confirmed that they had terminated the striker's contract early.
Ronaldo effectively severed ties with United by conducting an interview with Piers Morgan in which he said he felt "betrayed" by the club. United explored their legal options following the bombshell interview and confirmed on Tuesday evening that they had released the 37-year-old early.
"Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect," the club said in a 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."
In response Ronaldo said: "Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early.
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"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 relationship with United has been strained all season, ever since he tried to force a transfer away from the club in the summer. He later refused to come off the bench at Tottenham, leaving his relationship with Erik ten Hag in a bad place.
Things came to a head when he agreed to tell his story to Morgan on Talk TV. "People should listen to the truth," he said. "Yes, I feel betrayed and I feel that some people don't want me here, not only this year but last year, too."
Ronaldo was also hugely critical of the club, Ten Hag, former players like Wayne Rooney during his explosive interview.
“Manchester right now to compare with that club, I think it's behind in my opinion, which is something that surprised me," he said. "A club with this dimension should be the top of the tree in my opinion and they are not, unfortunately. They are not in that level. But I hope the next years they can reach to be in a top level.”
