Ferdinand explains how Ten Hag will be feeling about Ronaldo leaving Man United

Rio Ferdinand believes both Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo will be "delighted" with the news that the Portugal captain is leaving the club.

United announced on Tuesday night that it had been mutually agreed that Ronaldo would leave with immediate effect.

Ronaldo's future has been in the spotlight since it emerged nine days ago he had done an interview with Piers Morgan, in which he criticised manager Erik ten Hag as well as the Glazer family ownership.

It was expected that Ronaldo's comments would ultimately lead to the end of his United career and that is indeed how it has panned out.

Ferdinand was on punditry duty for Mexico's World Cup group game against Poland, shown by the BBC, and gave his take on the matter.

"I think both parties will be delighted," Ferdinand said. "He did that interview with the mindset that he wanted to get out. He wasn't happy, he made it very clear. Ten Hag has got what he wanted as well. Both parties are happy and it's time for the next chapter for Cristiano Ronaldo."

On Ronaldo's possible next destination, Ferdinand added: "It depends what the motivation is, is it Champions League? Is it money? Is it to continue playing somewhere with a nice climate? This will be going on behind the scenes but we'll find out in due course."

In a statement issued after his departure was confirmed, Ronaldo said: “Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early. I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change. However, it feels like the right time for me to seek a new challenge. I wish the team every success for the remainder of the season and for the future.”