Report: Manchester United to sue Ronaldo over explosive interview

Manchester United hired lawyers Friday to sue Cristiano Ronaldo for breach of contract following the player's unauthorized interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan, The Guardian's Jamie Jackson reports.

United also instructed Ronaldo not to return to the club's training base when the World Cup concludes in December, according to Jackson.

United waited until the entire interview was broadcast before launching legal proceedings Friday. The club wasn't aware of the interview before it was released.

"Manchester United has this morning initiated appropriate steps in response to Cristiano Ronaldo's recent media interview," the club said in a statement. "We will not be making further comment until this process reaches its conclusion."

Ronaldo told Morgan he felt "betrayed" by United's attempts to force him out of the club during the summer transfer window. The 37-year-old also said he has no respect for Ten Hag, that the club hasn't updated Old Trafford in decades, and that the younger players "don't care" about football.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner landed in Doha on Friday to begin preparations for the World Cup. His native Portugal begins group play Thursday against Ghana.