BREAKING: Man United terminate Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract

Manchester United have reached an agreement with Cristiano Ronaldo to mutually terminate his contract.

The Athletic reported last week that United had started a legal process against Ronaldo for breach of contract after his interview with Piers Morgan.

That work has developed rapidly and the 37-year-old’s exit has been finalised.

A statement from United 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.”

Ronaldo conducted a highly-critical interview prior to the World Cup — where the attacker is set to play for Portugal — in which he accused his employers of betrayal and took swipes at head coach Erik ten Hag, as well as the club’s hierarchy.

The Old Trafford side released a statement on Thursday, which read: “Manchester United has this morning initiated appropriate steps in response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent media interview.

“We will not be making further comment until this process reaches its conclusion.”