April 11 – Police are investigating an incident that saw Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo apparently slapping a phone out of a supporter’s hand as he left the field after Manchester United’s 1-0 weekend defeat at Everton.
Footage emerged on social media of Ronaldo appearing to swipe his hand towards the ground as he walked off the pitch and headed for the tunnel.
Ronaldo took to Instagram to apologise for the incident.
“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 apologize 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.”
Police said Sunday they were reviewing CCTV footage to establish whether Ronaldo committed an offense while the apparent victim’s mother has claimed he was left “in complete shock”.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo newspaper, Sarah Kelly said her 14-year-old son Jake Harding is autistic and “didn’t really digest what was happening” until he got home.
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