Ronaldo apologizes for 'outburst' after incident with fan at Goodison Park
Cristiano Ronaldo apologized after appearing to take his frustrations out on a supporter's phone following Manchester United's 1-0 loss to Everton on Saturday.
The 37-year-old Portuguese star was captured on video allegedly hitting a phone out of a fan's hand near the players' tunnel at Goodison Park.
Ronaldo smashing someone’s phone at full time 🤣🤣 EFC pic.twitter.com/nw0XIK2enR
— EvertonHub (@evertonhub) April 9, 2022
"It's never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing," Ronaldo said on Instagram. "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," he added.
Manchester United launched an investigation shortly after the video of the alleged encounter emerged online, according to ESPN.
News of the incident added to United's misery after an uninspired defeat severely dented the club's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League. United sit six points back of fourth place.