A week after his explosive interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United mutually agreed to part ways on Wednesday. The decision was announced in the wake of a controversial interview, where Ronaldo had slammed both manager Erik ten Hag and Manchester United.
Both the club and the player announced the separation on Tuesday evening. “Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” the club said in the official 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 tweeted, “Following talks with Manchester United, we’ve mutually agreed to end our contract. I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change. It feels like the right time to seek a new challenge. I wish Man Utd all the best.”
However, hours later Ronaldo shared another post, displaying his new watch collection, which were co-designed by him and his friend at Jacob and Co. Many felt, Ronaldo took a subtle dig at his former club with the new releases, as one of the designs included a goal he scored against United in the 2012-13 Champions League.
Ronaldo will next be seen in action against Ghana at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, scheduled for Thursday.
Questions have been raised whether his interview would affect things within the national team.
In fact after the interview a video featuring United midfielder Bruno Fernandes and Ronaldo went viral on the internet. The duo appeared to share a frosty exchange but Fernandes clarified it was nothing and the two were just sharing a joke.
