Manchester United have announced in a statement that Cristiano Ronaldo will leave the club with immediate effect by mutual agreement.
The 37-year-old re-joined the Red Devils last summer from Juventus 12 years after leaving the club for Real Madrid.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was United’s top scorer across all competitions last season with 24 goals.
Since Portugal’s captain arrived at Carrington in August after missing pre-season, Ten Hag has had to deal with the distraction that one of the game’s all-time greats bring.
Manchester United’s official statement read: “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.”
One of the greatest players of all time has released a statement following his exit from the twenty-time league champions was confirmed.
Speaking in Qatar, Ronaldo 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 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 the future.”
