Cristiano Ronaldo a 'better man' after Manchester United exit

Cristiano Ronaldo says he is a “better man” following his acrimonious departure from Manchester United last year, while the Al Nassr captain also expressed his surprise at the competitiveness of Saudi Pro League.

The Portugal forward, poised to break yet another record with his national team, opened up somewhat on Wednesday about the controversial conclusion to his second stint in England.

Ronaldo's contract was terminated by United on the eve of the 2022 World Cup in November after his explosive TV interview with Piers Morgan, in which he criticised manager Erik ten Hag and the club’s owners.

Ronaldo, 38, went on to have a disappointing campaign in Qatar – Portugal were eliminated at the quarter-final stage, with their captain losing his place in the starting line-up – before he signed for Saudi’s Nassr in late December.

Speaking about his United exit, Ronaldo said: “I think that everything in life happens for a reason. I'm often grateful to go through some difficult things so I can see who is really on my side.

“At the tough times, you see who is on your side. It wasn't a very good phase in my life, in my career, first on a personal level and then professionally.

“There is no time for regrets in this life. Even if we don’t do so well, it’s part of our life. When we are at the top of the mountain, it’s hard to see what’s down here and many times I couldn’t.

“I feel like I’m better prepared now because I can see some things. I’m a better man now.”

On Thursday, Ronaldo will become the all-time record holder for men’s international appearances (197) should he feature in Portugal’s 2024 European Championship qualifier against Liechtenstein.

The former United, Real Madrid and Juventus star's future with his national team was