Rio Ferdinand gives live TV reaction 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

'Next chapter,' says Rio Ferdinand

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:

“I think both parties will be delighted now. He obviously did that interview with the mindset that he wanted to get out of the football club. Wasn’t happy, made it very clear. "But I also think Erik ten Hag has got what he wanted as well in this situation. Both parties are happy, move on. Next chapter for Cristiano Ronaldo." "I think [Ronaldo's next move] depends what the motivation is. Is it Champions League, money? Is it just to continue playing somewhere with a nice climate? This will be going on behind the scenes but we’ll find out I’m sure in due course."

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:

• Wayne Rooney responds to Cristiano Ronaldo interview comments
• Cristiano Ronaldo turned full Roy Keane when discussing ‘this generation’ of footballers
• Cristiano Ronaldo removed from Old Trafford advertising boards

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