Cristiano Ronaldo is officially a free agent, as Manchester United announced they have agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent, with Napoli and Roma among potential next destinations.
The situation had become frankly untenable after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan, in which he criticised everyone from the club owners to current and former coaches.
He timed it to coincide with the break for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with Portugal, knowing he could not return to Old Trafford.
“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,” read a club statement.
Ronaldo had originally been at Manchester United from 2003 to 2009, then returned at a cost of €17m from Juventus in August 2021.
“Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early,” wrote CR7.
“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.”
His future will most likely be in America with Major League Soccer, however, there are some European sides who are still interested in taking on Ronaldo’s massive salary, especially now he does not have a transfer fee attached.
They include Chelsea in the Premier League, plus Napoli and Roma in Serie A.
Roma director Tiago Pinto insisted that despite the presence of Jose Mourinho, Ronaldo coming to the Stadio Olimpico was “never a possibility.”
Napoli are in the Champions League and currently top of the Serie A table, but might baulk at his salary.
He wore the Juventus jersey from 2018 to 2021, amassing 101 goals and 22 assists in 134 games for the Bianconeri.
Kvaradonas dream is coming true to play alongside his childhood hero and idol
Come to Besiktas
Pls keep Ronaldo away from Napoli
Please go to Napoli and derail their season
I see an LA lifestyle beckoning.
I hope he is arrested as soon as he lands in the United States
I am sure MLS is the only place for him. Stop implying Napoli want anything to do with him.