DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Manchester United announced on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo will leave the club with immediate effect.

The 37-year-old forward's contract was terminated after he gave an explosive interview in which he criticised manager Erik ten Hag and the club's owners.

After failing to secure a move to a Champions League club in the summer, it was unclear where he would end up next.

"Following discussions with Manchester United, we have mutually agreed to terminate our contract early,"said Ronaldo."I adore Manchester United and its supporters, and that will never change." However, it appears that the time has come for me to seek a new challenge.

"I wish the team the best of luck for the rest of the season and in the future."

Ronaldo, who is currently in Qatar with Portugal attempting to win his country's first World Cup title, previously stated that he desired a transfer after being reduced to a fringe member of the team this season.

He got his wish on Tuesday, when United confirmed his departure.

"Cristiano Ronaldo has agreed to leave Manchester United with immediate effect," the club said in a statement.

"The club thanks him for his enormous contribution over two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family the best of luck in the future."

United's displeasure with Ronaldo's unauthorised interview with Piers Morgan was not conveyed in the statement.