Football News: Cristiano Ronaldo addresses Manchester United exit

Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken out for the first time about his departure from Manchester United. Ronaldo returned to Manchester United in the summer of 2021 after previously played for the club from 2003 and 2009.

The veteran forward was under contract with the club until the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. However, the Ex-Real Madrid forward was released in December.

Ronaldo gave a contentious interview to Piers Morgan on TalkTV in November, criticising several facets of the club, notably the Glazer family's ownership and manager Erik ten Hag.

Under Ten Hag, the Portugal international struggled for playing time. Thus, he started only four of his 12 Premier League matches this season. Man United decided to terminate Ronaldo's contract as a result of the shocking interview.

The 38-year-old then signed a lucrative two-year contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where he has nine goals and two assists in ten competitive matches.

Ronaldo is now training with Portugal's side ahead of their forthcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Luxembourg.

The veteran attacker addressed his unceremonious departure from Manchester United during a press appearance in Portugal.

"Sometimes, you have to go through some things to see who is on my side,"

Ronaldo told reporters.

"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."

Former Belgium manager Roberto Martinez has been chosen as Fernando Santos' successor.

Martinez, who led Belgium to third place in the 2018 World Cup, will be hoping to lead Portugal to their eighth successive European Championship.

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