Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Manchester United ‘with immediate effect’

Cristiano Ronaldo has parted with Manchester United “with immediate effect,” the Premier League club confirmed yesterday.

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

His contract wasn’t due to expire 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.

“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 is in Qatar preparing for Portugal’s opening game against Ghana tomorrow.

“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.”