Rashford hails Ronaldo despite Man Utd divorce

James Shearman

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:56 CDT
• 3 min read

Marcus Rashford has praised former Manchester United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, despite his controversial exit from the club.

Ronaldo had his United contract terminated this week after his recent explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

He is now the only player featuring at the 2022 World Cup currently without a club.

MORE: Ronaldo didn't think Morgan interview would end his Man Utd career

Rashford has admitted to idolising Ronaldo and hasn't changed his opinion of the 37-year-old after the fallout.

''It has been an unbelievable experience to play with him,'' Rashford said. "He is one of my idols and someone I always looked up to.

''It is something I can keep with me forever, I wish him all the best and we want to thank him for the things he’s done for Manchester United.''

Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia?

Cristiano Ronaldo received his first formal contract offer since his Manchester United departure, worth a staggering $225 million across three years.

With interested teams able to approach Ronaldo, CBS Sports revealed that Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr are ready to offer the 37-year-old a three-year contract after the World Cup.

Ronaldo is still keen to remain in Europe and play in the Champions League but the nine-time Saudi Professional League winners are hoping the striker’s experience in Qatar will help convince him to play in the Middle East.

The club have claimed their interest in Ronaldo is ‘stronger than ever’, with talks believed to be advanced after the player was first approached in the summer with an offer worth a reported €350m.

The contract Is understood to be worth $75m a year and hinges on Ronaldo’s response to a deal that would see him play into his 40s.