Marcus Rashford has paid tribute to his ‘idol’ Cristiano Ronaldo and thanked him for everything he did for Manchester United following his exit earlier this week. The 37-year-old was officially released from his contract on Tuesday after both parties reached a mutual agreement to terminate his deal in the wake of his now infamous explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

Ronaldo burned his bridges with United and manager Erik ten Hag in the bombshell interview, claiming he was disrespected by the club on numerous occasions. United will now consider signing a new striker in the January transfer window to offset the loss of the Portuguese forward, with Rashford one of those who will be tasked with leading the line for the rest of the season. Despite the sour nature of his departure, Rashford only had good things to say about Ronaldo when he was asked about him on Sunday afternoon.

🗣️ "He's one of my idols"

Marcus Rashford says it's been an unbelievable experience to play with Cristiano Ronaldo and wishes him the best in his future 🙌🔴pic.twitter.com/xaOZLvv4Ue

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 27, 2022

“It has been an unbelievable experience to play with him,” Rashford told reporters from England’s camp in Qatar. “He is one of my idols and someone I always looked up to. It’s 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.”

The Portuguese icon was United’s top goalscorer in the previous campaign. Unfortunately, he was unable to replicate the same form in the 2022/23 season for the Red Devils. Erik ten Hag also did not seem to fancy the 37-year-old in his starting lineup. The forward also seemed to be missing his shooting boots this term, which did not help the former Real Madrid star’s cause.

The United academy graduate seems to have taken the mantle from the 37-year-old. With eight goals in all competitions for the Red Devils in the current campaign, the 25-year-old is our leading goalscorer. Ronaldo has been one of the best players in the Old Trafford side’s history. The Portuguese was pivotal in his first spell at the club, winning multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League medal.