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Bangkok Post
Bangkok Post
National

Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Manchester United

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag talks to Cristiano Ronaldo during a match between the club and Aston Villa on Nov 6, 2022. (Reuters photo)

Cristiano Ronaldo has parted with Manchester United "with immediate effect," the Premier League club confirmed Tuesday.

The 37-year-old's future with United was in question after an interview in which he said the club had made "zero progress" since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013 and that he "doesn't respect" Erik ten Hag.

His contract wasn't due to end until June, but the club is not paying Ronaldo to leave early, according to multiple reports.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect," United 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."

Ronaldo is in Qatar preparing for Portugal's opening game against Ghana on Thursday.

"Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early," Ronaldo said in his own 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 rejoined United from Juventus in 2021, but had made it clear that he wanted to transfer with his role being greatly reduced this season. He was ordered to train on his own last month after refusing to come on as a substitute and walking off the pitch during United's win over Tottenham.

Meanwhile, Manchester United also confirmed on Tuesday that the Glazer family is exploring a potential sale of the club.

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