BARRIO – Cristiano Ronaldo is officially leaving Manchester United after sharing his frustrations with the team during an explosive interview with Piers Morgan.
“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,” read a statement from the English Premier League club on Tuesday, November 22. “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.”
The news of the soccer star’s mutual departure from the team comes a week after his highly-critical interview with Morgan. In the interview, Ronaldo shared he “felt betrayed” by the club, alleging he felt like he was being forced out.
“Some people, I feel, don’t want me here,” the forward admitted in the interview on November 13. “Not just this year, but last year too.”
Ronaldo also touched on his relationship with coach Erik ten Hag. “I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me,” Ronaldo said at the time. “If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never gonna have respect for you.”
The professional athlete’s contract with the English team was set to expire at the end of the season. He is also a member of Portugal’s national team and currently playing with them in Qatar for the World Cup.