Manchester United say farewell to Cristiano Ronaldo with 81-word note in matchday programme with Erik ten Hag insisting ‘we look to the future’

Manchester United gave Cristiano Ronaldo a glittering send-off, with an 81-word segment hidden in their matchday programme.

The Portuguese star ended his association with the club last month by leaving by mutual consent following his explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he took aim at numerous key figures around Old Trafford.

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As a result, the 37-year-old’s future at the club was untenable, leading to him leave under a dark cloud.

With Man United returning to domestic action after the World Cup, all eyes were peeled for any traces of Ronaldo around Old Trafford.

However, it was just a small segment in the ‘Worth Knowing’ feature of the United Review programme.

It read: “Cristiano Ronaldo left the club by mutual agreement last month.

“The Portuguese superstar scored 145 goals across two spells and 436 appearances, and helped us win three Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups, the Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Ronaldo was also crowned Ballon d’Or winner in 2008.

“In a statement on November 22, the club put on record its gratitude for Cristiano’s immense contribution and wished him and his family well for the future.”

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Erik ten Hag was also asked about Ronaldo’s exit following the Carabao Cup victory over Burnley.

Following the 2-0 win, he said: “I gave you all the opportunity, many of you were in Spain.

“We made the statement, we look to the future.”

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