Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo over his contract release from Manchester United.

Calderon, who was president of Madrid between 2006 and 2009, referenced Ronaldo's lack of playing time with the Red Devils as he defended the forward's actions.

"Cristiano might be coming to the end of his glorious career, but he remains a wonderful player," Calderon said. "It must have been so frustrating for him to not be in the team at Manchester United.

"United will have their reasons, of course, but someone of his stature in the game was never going to accept that. He has to be playing football.

"He has his pride and reputation to consider, so I think it's a good thing his time there has come to an end."