Manchester United agrees to part ways with Cristiano Ronaldo after interview fallout

Manchester United and star Cristiano Ronaldo agreed to part ways, the club announced Tuesday. 

The move, effective immediately, comes after weeks of speculation surrounding the fractured relationship. 

"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," the club said in a statement.

During his second stint with the club which started in August 2021, Ronaldo had 54 appearances and scored 27 goals across all competitions.

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“Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early," Ronaldo said in a 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”

Before the start of the World Cup, the 37-year-old Ronaldo gave an interview accusing United of betrayal and said that he had "no respect" for ten Hag.

"The atmosphere is excellent, no problems, we are completely focused. You can help by not talking about me. I'm completely bulletproof and iron-clad," Ronaldo said in response to that interview. "I don't have to think about what other people think. I speak when I want. The players know me really well for many years and know the type of person I am."

Ronaldo will suit up for Portugal for the World Cup with the country playing its tournament opener against Ghana on Thursday.