Eddie Howe’s 19-word response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Newcastle United ‘clause’

Eddie Howe has shut down talk of Cristiano Ronaldo potentially joining Newcastle United from Al-Nassir next season.

Spanish newspaper Marca claimed the former Manchester United star has a clause in his reported £174million-a-year contract to link up with the Magpies next season if they can qualify for the Champions League.

But Howe has moved to rubbish the story. The Magpies head coach, speaking ahead of tonight’s clash at Premier League leaders Arsenal, told Sky Sports: “We wish Cristiano all the best with his new venture but there’s no truth in that from our perspective.”

Ronaldo was unveiled as an Al-Nassr player in Riyadh today following his controversial exit from Old Trafford.

When speaking to the media, the 37-year-old insisted his time in Europe was over.

“For me, I’m really happy to be here and I know the league is competitive,” the six-time Ballon d’Or winner said. I’ve watched many games. I am so proud at making this big decision in my life and my career. My work in Europe is done. I played for all the most important clubs.

“I had many opportunities in Europe. Many clubs in Brazil, Australia, in the US and even Portugal. For me, this is a good chance with my knowledge and experience to grow very important clubs.”