Usain Bolt claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has been the "heartbeat" of Manchester United and that he can comprehend why the striker has recently been critical of the team.
After delivering an explosive interview to Piers Morgan this week in which he claimed to feel "betrayed" by United and to have no regard for head coach Erik ten Hag, Ronaldo has come under fire.
Ronaldo is getting ready to represent Portugal in his sixth World Cup, but United has promised to take "appropriate steps" to stop him.
Former United defender Gary Neville has said that the team ought to terminate Ronaldo's contract, although eight-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt would be sad to see him depart.
When Sky Sports asked Bolt about the future of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner on Sunday, he said: “Yes, I’m sad to see him go, do you know what I mean?
“It’s Cristiano Ronaldo, he’s been, as far as I can say, Manchester United’s heartbeat. He’s done so well for the club.
“For me, it’s going to be stressful to see him go, but I understand what he’s saying. I watched the interview, so I know what’s going on.”
Last season, Ronaldo led United in goals with 24 in all competitions, but since Ten Hag took over as manager before the new season, he hasn’t played as much.
This season, the 37-year-old has only started four Premier League games for United. He scored once, in a 2-1 win at Everton last month.