Ronaldo warned by the police after reportedly slapping phone from fan’s hand
Cristiano Ronaldo has been warned by the UK police after the footage emerged of the forward Manchester United seeming to hit a phone in the hand of an Everton fan at a match last season.
The 37-year-old was interviewed by officers regarding an alleged assault and criminal damage following the incident at Goodison Park on April 9.
Merseyside police launched an investigation after a clip circulated online of Ronaldo appearing to hit the supporter’s mobile phone on the ground while heading into the tunnel after United’s 1-0 defeat.
The force said on Wednesday: “We can confirm that a 37-year-old man voluntarily came forward and was questioned prudently to an alleged assault and criminal injury.
The allegation concerns an incident that occurred following the Everton v Manchester United football match at Goodison Park on Saturday, April 9.
The matter was settled by a conditional warning. It is now settled.
Following the incident, Ronaldo issued an apology on social media for his “outburst” and invited the supporter to watch a match at Old Trafford “as a sign of fair play and sportsmanship”.
Taking to his Instagram account after the match, the Portuguese forward said: “It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing.
“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.”
It comes as Ronaldo struck at the “lies” surrounding reports about his future at struggling United.
The Portuguese forward missed the club’s pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia for personal reasons, as there was speculation that he was leaving Old Trafford.
It was reported that Ronaldo wants to play Champions League football, but United maintains that it is not for sale and is still an integral part of the plans of new boss Erik ten Hag.
The former Real Madrid star competed for 90 minutes of United’s 4-0 loss at Brentford on Saturday, which put them at the bottom of the Premier League.
In a reply to a fan account on Instagram that referred to a report linking the United frontman to Atletico Madrid, Ronaldo said fans would “know the truth” in a couple of weeks, adding: “The media is telling lies.”