Cristiano Ronaldo releases statement after Man Utd rip up his contract with Portugal star now a free agent

CRISTIANO RONALDO issued a statement confirming his immediate Manchester United exit.

United terminated Ronaldo's £500,000-a-week contract via "mutual agreement" after the star forward's bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.

The Portugal captain issued a touching message to the Red Devils fans stating he will always "love" the club and wished the team the very best.

Ronaldo released the following 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”.

Ronaldo blasted the club during his recent sit-down with Morgan as he claimed he feels "betrayed" by United.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner also fired shots at manager Erik ten Hag, the Glazers as well as former team-mates Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney.

United released a blunt statement confirming the club icon's exit from Old Trafford.

It reads: "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, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family well for the future.

"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."

The news comes less than 48 hours before Ronaldo kicks off his fifth World Cup campaign with Portugal.