Breaking Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Manchester United with immediate effect

Cristiano Ronaldo has left Manchester United with immediate effect, the club confirmed in a statement this afternoon.

The development comes a week after Ronaldo unsettled the club in an outspoken TV interview.

In the short statement, the club said they had reached a mutual agreement with the player to terminate his contract.

"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," the statement read.

"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."

Ronaldo himself subsequently issued a statement, saying it was time for him to "seek a new challenge".

"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.

"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 for the future."

"From a Portugal point of view, it's horrendous timing. He should be focused on the World Cup finals" - Shay Given reacts to the news Cristiano Ronaldo has left Manchester United https://t.co/lRYcLO9P5o