Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on controversial Man United exit

Ronaldo left Man United in November

Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford in 2021 after a spell at Juventus and scored 24 times in 38 games last season despite the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Following United's failure to qualify for the Champions League, the 38-year-old expressed his desire to leave the club however new manager Erik ten Hag was reluctant to allow him to move on.

But after a number of sub-par performances and disciplinary issues - which included walking down the tunnel before the end of United's game against Tottenham - the Portugal international's final straw was a bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.

During the lengthy conversation Ronaldo hit out at the day-to-day running of the club as well as openly criticising Ten Hag.

His contract was subsequently terminated and Ronaldo chose to join Saudi Pro League side, Al Nassr.

After being called up to the Portugal national team by Roberto Martinez Ronaldo faced the media ahead of games against Liechtenstein and Luxembourg, where he was asked about his time at United and if he had any career regrets.

"Sometimes, you have to go through some things to see who is on my side," he told O Jogo.

"I have no problem saying, I had a bad career run, but there’s no time for regrets. Life goes on and, doing well or not, it was part of my growth.

"When we are at the top of the mountain, we often cannot see what is below.

"Now, I’m more prepared and learning that was important, because I had never been through this, like in the last few months. Now I’m a better man."

Related links:

• Man United have been the Premier League’s best team since Cristiano Ronaldo left
• Cristiano Ronaldo living in lavish hotel used by Newcastle amid talks of transfer clause
• Cristiano Ronaldo will return to Europe, Al Nassr manager confirms