Forward for Portugal Cristiano Ronaldo will quit Manchester United immediately.

The decision comes after a contentious interview in which the 37-year-old slammed the club and said that he had "no respect" for manager Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo's departure was "mutually decided" by both sides.

"The club acknowledges him for his enormous contribution during two seasons at Old Trafford," Manchester United stated in a statement.

"Everyone at Manchester United is focused on maintaining the team's development under Erik ten Hag and working together to bring success on the field," they said, wishing "him and his family well for the future."

In Ten Hag's first season as manager, United are fifth in the Premier League, with the season paused for the World Cup in Qatar.

Ronaldo is at the competition with Portugal and will skipper them in their first Group H encounter against Ghana on Thursday.

On Monday, he spoke to the media in Qatar, claiming that he would "comment when he wants" and that his spat with United will not "shake" the Portugal team.

Ronaldo, who scored 145 goals in 346 games for United, will return to the club in August 2021, 11 years after leaving to join Real Madrid.

He had just over seven months left on his £500,000-a-week deal with United, and his exit frees him to join with another club when the January transfer market opens.

"Following discussions with Manchester United, we have mutually decided to finish our contract early," Ronaldo stated in a statement.

"I adore Manchester United and its supporters, and that will never change." However, it seems that the time has come for me to seek a new challenge.

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