After the shocking interview by British broadcaster Piers Morgan with Cristiano Ronaldo bombarded the entire football world, everyone was waiting anxiously for the response from the Red Devils and the outcome was expected: Manchester United and the Portugal national football team captain have terminated their contract by mutual agreement with immediate effect. In other words, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has left the Red Side of Manchester for the second time, after coming back to the club a year ago.
The 90-minute interview saw Cristiano Ronaldo speak many things about the treatment and experience he had after sealing a sensational return to the club where he made the world know about him. From owners, coaches to players, past teammates to even ground staff, the Funchal-born football megastar shared his perspectives and had ruffled feathers of many, in both appropriate and inappropriate ways. His particular comments about the current Manchester United boss, Erik ten Hag was the straw that broke the camel’s back, with the Dutchman informing the Glazers that Ronaldo should never wear the famous United red again.
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Returned After 12 Years
The Portuguese sporting phenomenon’s news of returning to the English Premier League first surfaced by the start of last season, with rumours circulating that he was joining the other side of Manchester, the Citizens. But Manchester United knew they cannot afford a club legend like Cristiano Ronaldo to head to their noisy neighbour and arch-rival, so they decided to join the race to re-sign him. Talks between Ronaldo’s camp and Manchester United’s executives, past and present managers and players ultimately resulted in his dramatic return to the 20-time Premier League champion.
His performance in his first season back to the club did not disappoint fans at all, with 26 goals scored in all competitions and he eventually became the top scorer for the club last season. But a string of unpleasant events, such as the death of his child, an illness suffered by his daughter, absence from preseason trainings and games, benching for matches, early exit during the Tottenham clash, etc. have all contributed to an unhealthy relationship between Cristiano Ronaldo and Erik ten Hag as well as several members of the club. During the second part of the Piers Morgan interview, Ronaldo highlighted that there was never any respect between the Dutch gaffer and him; The goodbye was imminent.
Ronaldo missed Portugal’s friendly game against Nigeria prior to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The Glazers Putting Manchester United on Sale
Ronaldo’s exit from Manchester United has caused a ripple effect, with long-time owner the Glazers family set to sell away part or whole of the team. They were criticised for years, especially when no obvious progress and unwise investments were made after the Sir Alex Ferguson era; Former players and managers and fans have been calling for the ousting of the Glazers family and this is the first time such a sign has emerged. The Glazers have reportedly said that they prefer selling their entire Manchester United shares and are willing to listen to any offers with in excess of £5 billion.
Which club do you think Cristiano Ronaldo is going next? Do you think the Glazers family should sell Manchester United?
(Photo Credits: CNN)
