Gary Pallister talks the end of the Cristiano Ronaldo era

Following a car crash interview with Piers Morgan, Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United called time on their relationship and Old Trafford legend, Gary Pallister is sad that things worked out the way they did.

When the Portuguese icon signed with ‘The Red Devils’ last season, the fans rejoiced at the return of their hero. But fast forward a campaign and a half, and they want nothing to do with him.

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Throughout the summer, Ronaldo desperately tried to force a move away from the Theatre of Dreams. However, he failed to generate the interest of the big clubs. Subsequently, he had to remain in Manchester and unsurprisingly, his popularity took a hit.

And following his interview with one of Britain’s most controversial journalists, in which he re-emphasised his desire to play in the Champions League, he signed a deal with Saudi Arabian club, AlNassr FC.

The agreement, while contrary to what the player initially said he wanted, will give him the highest salary in football history, worth €200 million per year. However, the events have left many purists with a sour taste in their mouths.

And one United legend has come forward to elaborate on his frustrations.

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Gary Pallister shares his stance on Cristiano Ronaldo

In an interview with MrCasinova.com, the former centre-back revealed that he believes CR7’s departure was for the best

He said: “That’s 100% the mantra that you’ve got to take, that there is no player bigger than the club. Could it have all been handled better? Yeah, quite possibly. Was it always going to be a difficult situation? I think from the moment that he came back in and said that he wanted to leave, it was always going to be difficult. I’m sure that everybody in hindsight might have done it slightly differently. But that’s all been nipped in the bud now he has left the club.”

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He continued: “It became an issue that overshadowed the whole football club. It distracted from what the team were trying to do – trying to build that work ethic, trying to build a team and it became too much of a distraction and I think it was for the best for all parties after the interview that he was to leave the club for pastures new.

“Ronaldo has been unbelievable for United over the years, he started his career there, got his move to Real Madrid and came back last year scoring 20 or so goals in a team that was struggling. It’s a shame it ended like that.”

Featured Image Credit: AlNassr FC