Cristiano Ronaldo believes this is the "right time" to seek a new challenge after his departure from Manchester United was confirmed with immediate effect.
The 37-year-old's contract at Old Trafford has been terminated after the club and the player came to a mutual agreement to rip up the deal, which had the remainder of this season to run.
It was widely expected that Ronaldo would leave the club after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan was aired last week. In it, Ronaldo accused United of trying to force him out of the club and said he had no respect for manager Erik ten Hag.
READ MORE: United announce Ronaldo to leave club with immediate effect
His exit from the club was confirmed on Tuesday and Ronaldo released a statement shortly after.
"Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early," he said.
"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."
A United statement said: "Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect. 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 has been a peripheral figure under Ten Hag this season, scoring just three goals and falling down the pecking order.
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