RONALDO SET TO EXIT MANCHESTER UNITED WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT

NEW DELHI: Manchester United on Tuesday announced that its star forward Cristiano Ronaldo will leave the club with immediate effect. The move was imminent after the Portuguese gave an explosive interview last week where he said he had been betrayed by the club and was being forced out.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” Manchester United said in a 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.”

Talking to the press on Monday, the 37-year-old said all the hullabaloo around the interview had not distracted him or Portugal ahead of their opening FIFA World Cup Group H game against Ghana on Thursday. Ronaldo added that he isn’t worried about how his actions will impact the squad.

“I don’t have to think about what other people think. The players know me really well for many years and know the type of person I am. It’s an ambitious group that is hungry and focused. So I’m sure it (the interview) won’t shake the changing room’s concentration and focus,” he said.

Ronaldo, who joined United from Juventus in August 2021 on an initial two-year deal, was suspended for the club’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea after refusing to come on as a substitute against Spurs last month.