Cristiano Ronaldo will not wear the Manchester United shirt again. The English club has issued a statement this Tuesday afternoon to announce the separation of the Portuguese legend "with immediate effect" and by "mutual agreement".
In the brief text, barely three paragraphs, the 'red devils' thank Cristiano for his "immense contributions in his two spells at Old Trafford" and recall his scoring figures (145 goals in 346 games), but little else. The footballer's misconduct since Erik ten Hag's arrival on the bench last summer, without assuming his secondary role in the team, has eroded his relationship with Old Trafford, where he was considered an idol.
Minutes later, Cristiano himself spoke about his departure from Manchester. "Following discussions with Manchester United, we have agreed to terminate our contract. I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never change. I feel the time is right to look for a new challenge. I wish United all the best," he said. .
The news is announced in the middle of the World Cup, a few hours before Portugal's debut against the Ghanaian team next Thursday. Therefore, Ronaldo, one of the great attractions in Qatar, will participate in his fifth World Cup match in search of another personal record - no player has scored in five different editions - and he will do so without a team.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for him, although some information suggests that his next destination is not outside of England. A nouveau riche like Newcastle could convince him with Saudi petrodollars. Last summer it was rumored about a possible interest from Arabia, although in this case to play for a club on the peninsula. The offer was 250 million euros for a two-year contract. However, the Portuguese rejected it.
His little participation at United has raised some critical voices about whether he arrives in shape for the tournament. Last Monday the player defended himself before the media. "If after what I have done and won I still have to prove something at 37 years and eight months... I would worry."
In these first months of competition, Cristiano has gotten used to visiting the bench more than he had done throughout his career. His titles were limited to matches in the Europa League, a competition in which United has been paired with Barça. The sudden goodbye will prevent seeing Cristiano again at the Camp Nou.
Cristiano charged Ten Hag in a recent interview for his "lack of empathy" and "respect". "It's not allowed for a coach to put me in for three minutes in a match. I'm sorry, I'm not that kind of player." His goals until the break are limited to five in 21 games.
