By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Manchester United Football Club has issued a statement in the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo’s bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.
Ronaldo, 37 told the TalkTV host, he felt betrayed at the club and that manager Erik ten Hag and the club’s hierarchy are trying to force him out.
Now the club has made a statement on their website. It read: “Manchester United notes the media coverage regarding an interview by Cristiano Ronaldo.
“The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established.
“Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans.”
ℹ️ Club statement.#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 14, 2022
The full 90-minute interview will be broadcast by TalkTV on Wednesday and Thursday.
When asked if United’s hierarchy were trying to force him out of the club, Ronaldo said: “Yes, not only the coach, but another two or three guys around the club. I felt betrayed.”
When quizzed again if senior club executives were trying to oust him, the 37-year-old said: “I don’t care. People should listen to the truth.
“Yes, I felt betrayed and I felt like some people don’t want me here, not only this year, but last year too.”
Ronaldo also said he did not respect boss Ten Hag, admitting: “I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me. If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never gonna have respect for you.”
Ronaldo wanted to leave United in the summer, but did not get his desired move away.
His relationship has only deteriorated as the season has progressed and he refused to come on as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur in October.