Rio Ferdinand reacts to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man United departure

Ronaldo has left Man United by mutual consent

Pundits and fans around the world have reacted after Manchester United confirmed the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo. United released a statement on Tuesday saying that Ronaldo had left the club by mutual consent. It comes a week after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he gave a damning assessment of the Red Devils. From feeling "betrayed" by Erik ten Hag to highlighting the lack of progression at the club since he first left in 2009, Ronaldo didn't hold back, leaving officials at the club less than impressed. Following the release of the full interview, United held talks with the 37-year-old and have agreed to part ways two days before Ronaldo is due to play his first game at the World Cup for Portugal on Thursday. Ronaldo released a statement in the wake of the news in which he paid tribute to the fans and said that the club would always be in his heart. He said: "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." https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1595110842491875328 Shortly after Mexico's draw with Poland on the BBC the pundits reacted, with Rio Ferdinand insisting that it was the best decision for everyone involved. He said: "Erik ten Hag got what he wanted out of this situation. So both parties are happy. Move on." https://twitter.com/BBCSport/status/1595115344301101097 Meanwhile Micah Richards, a former Manchester City defender, seemed in much higher spirits after the news that Pep Guardiola is set to sign a new deal at the Premier League champions. "What a great day!" he proclaimed before the broadcast ended. Related links:

• Cristiano Ronaldo releases statement after Man United exit confirmed
• Cristiano Ronaldo has officially left Man United
• Man United to sue and ban Cristiano Ronaldo over interview controversy