Former Premier League manager Ian Holloway has backed Manchester United over Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Red Devils allowed the Portugal forward to depart on a free after terminating his contract at the start of the World Cup.

While Ronaldo is still a worldwide mega star, Holloway believes United had no choice in the matter.

“I believe Man United will be a much better unit with everybody pointing the same way on the same page," Holloway told Daily Express.

“So I believe they will get much stronger without him.

“The whole point is both parties have to be happy.

“And unfortunately someone to size of Ronaldo at Manchester United could unknowingly unsettle the apple cart and tip it right up the other way.

“Life's about the club you're playing for and doing what you want it to and you being part of that. It's not all about you."