LAST UPDATE | 18 Nov 2022
MANCHESTER UNITED’S lawyers are looking at ways to bring Cristiano Ronaldo’s time at the club to an end in the wake of his explosive recent interview, the PA news agency understands.
A fan favourite after his success-laden first stint at the club, the 37-year-old’s Old Trafford return is set to end in a high-profile break-up.
Ronaldo made a variety of eye-catching comments during in an interview with TalkTV, criticising aspects varying from manager Erik ten Hag to the Glazer family’s ownership and club infrastructure.
Would have been more useful 3 months ago (when my tweet was sent) when the team were in dire trouble than after the last game before a 6 week break but like I said in my interview I’m happy he’s spoken out. https://t.co/Fg9zp5OtV5
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) November 17, 2022
The frontman is currently with Portugal preparing for the World Cup and looks to have made his final appearance for United, where his contract runs until the summer.
A club statement read: “Manchester United has this morning initiated appropriate steps in response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent media interview.
“We will not be making further comment until this process reaches its conclusion.”
Legal experts have said the unauthorised interview is likely to constitute a breach of contract, which could allow United the option of cancelling his contract should they so wish.
The PA news agency understands conversations between the club and Ronaldo’s representatives have begun over the end of his time at Old Trafford.
A swift, clean outcome would surely suit everybody given the former Real Madrid man arrives in Qatar later on Friday as Portugal gear up for their push for World Cup glory.
United could move to sack Ronaldo and start a potentially long, ugly legal battle and another option would be paying him to go, which given his exorbitant wages and desire to leave looks unlikely.
Finding middle ground is a third option that may suit both parties given he has made it clear he wants to leave and the club are ready to cut ties.
Ronaldo acknowledged in the eye-catching interview, which has dripped out over coming days, that his United future is in question.
“It is hard for me to say that I will not be back to Manchester United, but regardless, as you say, let’s see what’s going to happen,” he said.
“But, as I told you before, the fans for me always will be on my side, will be always in my heart.”
This article was originally published at 20:38 on 17 November.
While I’ve been quick to say he hasn’t impressed me at all in some aspects of his play, no denying he has been a great addition. Carty can be up and down with form and fitness and, save a purple patch by Conor Fitzgerald in the middle of 19/20, has had to play when he could do with a break for physical and mental form. Like Carty was flogged last year when Hawkshaw and Fitz were injured, but there was no real alternative. Having someone of Hanrahan’s level there too is great, and I was delighted when he signed.
He also has strengths that you could question Carty can be weak on. While I critique JJ’s attack-manship, another side of that very coin could argue unlike Carty, who seems to put the whole weight and responsiblity of Connacht’s whole attack on his shoulders, JJ is great in trying to utilise playmakers in the centre and SH. As well as having some days where his boot is almost laser guided.
With all respect to himself and Carty though. Post 2025 Connacht need to have a new 10 making strides. Perhaps Harry West or Sean Naughton (who looks like a superstar) can step up? If not maybe look at the 4th or 5th choice in Leinster? Prendergast, Tector, etc.
@David Hickey: Where is Conor Fitzgerald?