Manchester United favourite Cristiano Ronaldo was sent a birthday message on social media from his former club – even though he left Old Trafford in acrimonious circumstances
Cristiano Ronaldo may have left Manchester United for the second time under a cloud back in November 2022, the multi-time Ballon d’Or winner still holds the club dear to his heart.
Ronaldo, 39, returned to Old Trafford back in the summer of 2021 after spending six years playing under Sir Alex Ferguson at the start of his career, but his second coming was short-lived.
Despite plundering 24 goals in 38 matches in all competitions during the 2021/22 campaign, Ronaldo was given a reduced bit-part role following the arrival of Erik ten Hag before their relationship completely disintegrated.
Ronaldo would end up terminating his contract early after reaching a mutual agreement with United back in November 2022. However, his association with the club remains to this day and the Premier League outfit were quick to send a message of support to the Portuguese superstar on his 39th birthday.
The message from United, which was shared on Instagram alongside the ‘Viva Ronaldo’ chant, was given a seal of approval by the man himself, who liked the post on his own account.
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, claimed he felt “betrayed” by the club and slammed Ten Hag during an explosive interview with Piers Morgan shortly before his exit was confirmed after growing disillusioned with life at Old Trafford under the Dutchman.
Given the nature of his comments, his departure came as no surprise when it was announced a few days later. Reacting to the news, Ronaldo issued a statement which read: “Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early.
“I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change. However, it feels like the right time for me to seek a new challenge. I wish the team every success for the remainder of the season and for the future.”
Since quitting the Premier League, Ronaldo has plundered 44 goals in 50 games in Saudi Arabia for Al-Nassr, who are currently vying for the Saudi Pro League title. They are currently second, seven points behind Al-Hilal, who are unbeaten so far this term.
In total, Ronaldo scored 145 goals for Manchester United in the 345 appearances he made across his two spells at the club.
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