Portugal release Ronaldo to allow him link up with Man United

Cristiano Ronaldo has been released from Portugal duty, meaning he can head to the UK to link up with Manchester United.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner sealed a return to United on the final day of the transfer window, wrapping up the move from Juventus while on international duty with Portugal.

The transfer saga had no impact on Ronaldo, as he stole the show with two late goals as Portugal beat Republic of Ireland 2-1 in World Cup qualifying.

Ronaldo pulled out his trademark celebration after netting the second, but emotions got the better of him as he took off his shirt in the process – resulting in a yellow card.

It was his second caution of the campaign, meaning he is suspended for the World Cup qualifier with Azerbaijan next week.

Portugal coach Fernando Santos was unhappy to lose his talisman, but he has spared Ronaldo the long trip to Azerbaijan – and the friendly with Qatar at the weekend.

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The Portuguese FA confirmed Ronaldo had been released from international duty on Thursday – meaning he can now head to Manchester.

According to Record, Ronaldo will face five days of quarantine upon his arrival in Manchester – but it should not prevent him from making his debut against Newcastle on September 11.