Cristiano Ronaldo apologises after outburst following Man Utd loss leads to mobile phone incident
Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised for his “outburst” while leaving the pitch after Manchester United’s defeat at Everton, when he appeared to knock a mobile phone out of a supporter’s hand.
Ronaldo had returned to United’s starting line-up and played the full 90 minutes of the 1-0 defeat at Goodison Park. Anthony Gordon’s first-half strike was the difference as Everton boosted their hopes of avoiding the drop and dented the Red Devils’ Champions League aspirations.
Following the match, footage on social media emerged which appeared to show the Portugal forward knocking a phone out of an Everton supporter’s hand and onto the ground as he walked off towards the tunnel.
Later on Saturday evening, Ronaldo posted a statement on his personal Instagram account to apologise. He also invited the supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford “as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship”.
“It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing,” Ronaldo said.
“Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game.
“I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible. I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship.”
United to cooperate with police over incident
Manchester United also confirmed the club were aware of the matter.
A club spokesperson said in a statement: “We are aware of an alleged incident after today’s game at Everton. The club will cooperate with any police inquiries.”
Meanwhile, interim United boss Ralf Rangnick appeared to be critical of Ronaldo’s display at Goodison.
Speaking after the game, he said: “It’s not only creativity. I think we had enough creative payers on the pitch.
“It’s also about being physical enough in the final third, being physical and trying to score a goal. We didn’t have enough players in the box.”
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