Manchester United have announced that Cristiano Ronaldo has left the Club following the termination of his contract by mutual consent. The Portuguese superstar then took to Instagram to announce a new collaboration deal which included a slight parting shot aimed at the club.
Ronaldo sat down with Piers Morgan for TalkTV last week where he went on to explain his current situation at Man United, including his relationship with manager Erik Ten Hag, as well as the state of the club.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner launched a scathing attack on the club’s hierarchy, much to the delight of the fans, but it was comments regarding Ten Hag that caused the Red Devils’ faithful to truly turn against their club legend.
The club released a statement on Tuesday evening announcing the exit of their number 7.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” read the 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.
“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.”
Ronaldo is now a free agent and will be looking to put himself in the shop window by having a strong World Cup with Portugal, where he’ll be able to show the world what he still has to offer.
The former Real Madrid star also released a statement following his contract termination.
“Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early,” said Ronaldo in press release.
“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 Man Utd all the best.”
Despite his comments, Ronaldo seemed to take aim with a few parting shots at Man United following his exit by announcing a new collaboration deal. The player revealed on Instagram that he partnered up with jewellery and watch company Jacob & Co.
Ronaldo announced the deal by posting one of their collaborated watch designs, which was based off a famous header Ronaldo scored for Real Madrid against Man United.
Whether this was intentional or not remains unclear. However, given Ronaldo’s brand and the fact that it’s likely managed by experts, it’s almost certain that the announcement and content of it was a strategically planned dig at the Club.
Ronaldo’s future remains up in the air. Not many Clubs at the top level have shown an interest in the player, but a good World Cup will undoubtedly lengthen his list of suitors.
