Days after Cristiano Ronaldo gave an interview criticizing Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag and the club’s owners, the Premier League club announced on Tuesday that Ronaldo will leave United “with immediate effect.”

United said in a statement posted to Twitter: “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.” Moments after the club’s announcement, Ronaldo issued his own statement confirming the break, per Fabrizio Romano: “Following talks with Manchester United, we’ve mutually agreed to end our contract. I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change.It feels like the right time to seek a new challenge. I wish Man Utd all the best.”

It was reported over the weekend that United was exploring legal ways to sever ties with Ronaldo after his comments ripping the club and manager Erik ten Hag. Ronaldo, who is currently in Qatar with Portugal as he aims to win a first World Cup title for his country, has been left frustrated after being reduced to a fringe member of United’s team this season. The Portugal captain said he felt “betrayed” during the 90-minute interview with Piers Morgan, which aired Thursday and in which he was also critical of younger players.  Said Ronaldo: “I felt like some people don’t want me here … not only this year but last year, too.”

Upon severing ties with Ronaldo, United will save around £15.5 million in wages, as the team will not pay out the rest of his deal or additional compensation. The agreement will allow the Ronaldo to sign with another Premier League club if he chooses.  Ronaldo joined United for a second stint with the team in 2021, scoring 19 goals in 40 appearances. He previously played for the team from 2003-2009, scoring 94 goals in 196 appearances.

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