In the wake of his explosive interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Premier League giants Manchester United confirmed the exit of Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo from the club. He is now reportedly free to join another club after leaving Old Trafford and will not have to wait until the January transfer window.

In an official statement statement, Manchester United announced that Ronaldo will leave the club by mutual agreement with immediate effect. The statement said, “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,” it further read. In his recent controversial television interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo claimed that he felt betrayed by the club and had no respect for new manager Erik ten Hag. He also alleged that a few of the club bosses were trying to force him out.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese footballer, who rejoined Manchester United from Juventus in August last year, responded to the news of his termination and said, “Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early. 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.”

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.#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 22, 2022