Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo is set to leave Manchester United with immediate effect.
The 37-year-old criticized the club and said he had “no respect” for manager Erik ten Hag after a controversial interview.
Both parties stated that Ronaldo’s departure was “mutually agreed”.
“The club is grateful to him for his tremendous contribution during his two spells at Old Trafford,” a Manchester United statement said.
They wished “him and his family well for the future” and added that “everyone at Manchester United continues to work together under Erik ten Hag to continue the team’s progress and success on the pitch.”
United are fifth in the Premier League in Ten Hag’s first season as manager, taking the season off at the World Cup in Qatar.
Ronaldo is with Portugal at the tournament and will captain their Group H opener against Ghana on Thursday.
Speaking to the media in Qatar on Monday, he said he will “talk when he wants” and that the clash with United will not “shake” the Portuguese team.
Ronaldo, who scored 145 goals in 346 appearances for United, left Juventus for the Old Trafford club in August 2021, 11 years after moving to Real Madrid.
He had just over seven months left on his £500,000-a-week United contract and his exit leaves him free to join another club when the transfer window opens in January.
“After talks with Manchester United we have agreed to end our contract early,” Ronaldo said.
“I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never change. However, I think the time is right to look for a new challenge.
“I wish the team every success for the end of the season and for the future.”
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