'Sad that it had to end this way!': World Cup fever pauses briefly as Ronaldo, Man United cut ties

Cristiano Ronaldo's recent controversial interview with Piers Morgan, in which he was critical of Manchester United and its ownership, has seen the club cut ties with the 37-year-old "immediate effect" on Tuesday.

The Portugal international, who is in Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, has been the subject of much speculation following his frank statements.

However, United have now rocked the planet by hitting back, ending ties with who many regard as a club legend.

The news caught all footballing-loving fans by surprise as all focus has been on the World Cup but for a brief moment, United's timely statement, shifted attention to one of the most controversial sagas in football.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo and Portugal take to the field on Thursday, in their opening Group H match against Ghana.

It was sad that it had to end this way but nobody is above the club no matter what. Forever a Man United legend. Thank you for everything Cristiano Ronaldo and now u can go win the World Cup! Viva Ronaldo. pic.twitter.com/JyKnu1S39V

Cristiano Ronaldo produced all these phenomenal comebacks for Man United last season He did everything in his control to bring the club back to the top. pic.twitter.com/wk0oNYb1Z1

Cristiano Ronaldo statement ??????“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”. pic.twitter.com/rQTxEIjrLA

.@Cristiano's farewell message to @ManUtdpic.twitter.com/0KPsxny0To

Ronaldo had to go after voicing accusations and no respect for Ten Hag. #mufc didn’t betray him. He betrayed them. A shame it ended the way it did but that’s on Ronaldo. Fans will