Wayne Rooney Makes Interesting Claim About Ronaldo’s Legendary Status at Man United After Bitter Exit

• Wayne Rooney believes Cristiano Ronaldo is still an icon at Old Trafford
• The Englishman feels the star has not tarnished his Red Devils reputation
• Rooney and Ronaldo forged an unstoppable partnership some seasons ago

Wayne Rooney has reflected on Cristiano Ronaldo's legendary status at Manchester United on the back of his acrimonious exit from Old Trafford.

Ronaldo left United after an explosive interview with Piers Morgan, where the five-time Ballon d'Or winner took aim at several prominent figures from the club’s present and past.

The manner of the Portuguese star's exit has left many questioning his legacy but Rooney, who is the club's record goal-scorer and a bona fide legend, thinks otherwise.

He insists that his former teammate, Ronaldo, who now plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, remains an icon in Manchester.

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"No, I think what he’s done for Manchester United is great," Rooney asserted as quoted by Tribuna.

Rooney buttressed his point by recalling some of the achievements Ronaldo had attained during his first stint with the Red Devils.

"And he’s won Premier League titles, won the Champions League, scored many goals."

The former England international, who was criticised by his ex-teammate in the now infamous interview, believes Ronaldo is still held in high esteem by fans of the club, per MEN.

"So I think certainly for the fans and certainly for the players, his former teammates who played with him from my time especially, we’ll never forget what he did for Manchester United."

"Because, in my eyes, he’ll always be a club legend, and it’s a shame the way it ended, of course, this time around. But I don’t think that takes anything away from his legacy at the club."

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Rooney slams Ronaldo

Conversely to his comments, Sports Brief had reported on Rooney previously criticising Ronaldo for his behaviour at the club earlier this season.

He said the Portuguese star's behaviour has been unacceptable and suggested the club did not need that attitude amid their focus on rebuilding the team.

Ronaldo had refused to be brought on against Tottenham on October 19, which led to backlash from fans and his demotion from the United first team.