Why is Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Manchester United?
Cristiano Ronaldo was critical of Manchester United in his two-part interview with Piers Morgan.
Manchester United have announced that wantaway forward Cristiano Ronaldo is leaving the club.
Ronaldo to leave United
United’s statement read: “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.”
Why is Ronaldo leaving United?
Ronaldo was critical of the club in his two-part interview with Piers Morgan.
The Portugal international criticised the club for a lack of progression and direction since Alex Ferguson left Old Trafford. He was also critical of the club’s ownership and former manager Ralf Rangnick.
Ronaldo wanted to leave Old Trafford over the summer but was not able to find a suitor despite the best efforts of his agent and close friend Jorge Mendes. Mendes reportedly discussed a move for the veteran forward with clubs including Napoli, Atlético Madrid and Bayern Munich.
In his controversial chat with Morgan, the Portuguese admitted there was a bid worth over €300 million from a club in Saudi Arabia but he rejected it as he wants to continue playing in Europe.
The cracks started to appear when Ronaldo missed part of United’s pre-season tour over the summer and he later left Old Trafford early when the club played Rayo Vallecano in a pre-season friendly at Old Trafford.
The situation between the player and the club worsened recently when he refused to come on as a second-half substitute against Tottenham. United later suspended the 37-year-old for their match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
What’s next for Ronaldo?
After two spells at the Premier League club, he is now looking for a new club to join in January. It remains to be seen who will invest in a problematic aging player who will be demanding a monumental salary.
We have taken a look at where Ronaldo could end up going: What are Cristiano Ronaldo’s possible destinations after leaving Manchester United?