Ronaldo’s ‘relationship with Mendes erodes as clubs begin bypassing agent’

CRISTIANO RONALDO’S relationship with long-time agent Jorge Mendes is believed to be falling apart, according to reports.

The Portuguese superstar, 37, succeeded in having his Manchester United contract ripped up last month following his explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

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Following his departure from Old Trafford, he then concentrated on trying to win the World Cup with Portugal.

But their quarter-final exit at the hands of Morocco now means he flies back from Qatar a free agent in search of a new club.

Ronaldo has been linked with big offers from Saudi Arabian sides Al Hilal and Al-Nassr.

But it remains to be seen whether he will take up those offers – with European interest thought to be few and far between.

And according to AS, clubs are now bypassing Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, and speaking to the player himself.

Mendes, 56, has represented Ronaldo ever since he left Sporting Lisbon to join Man Utd in 2003.

But now he is thought to be less involved in the Real Madrid legend’s dealings.

And Antero Henrique, head of the Qatar Stars League, is trying to convince Ronaldo to stay in Qatar after experiencing the culture at the World Cup.

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However, Henrique has reportedly gone straight to the player in an attempt to lure him back to the Middle East – with Mendes thought to be working on an alternative proposal for his client.

Ronaldo scored just one goal at the World Cup and was dropped after the group stage.

But he did equal the men’s international appearance record in the defeat to Morocco, earning his 196th cap for Portugal – a career which includes 118 goals.