Footage of a frustrated Ronaldo was seen pulling the phone out of the hand of a young Everton fan as he left the Goodison Park stadium limping full time. The 37-year-old later apologized publicly through social media, describing the incident as an “outbreak”. A Merseyside police spokesman said: “As the players were leaving the pitch at 2.30pm, a boy was reportedly attacked by one of the visitors as they were leaving the pitch. “Investigations are ongoing and officers are currently working with Everton to review the CCTV video and conduct extensive witness investigations to determine if there has been a breach. “Anyone with information about this incident should contact the Merseyside Police Social Networking Office via Twitter MerPolCC or the Merseyside Police Facebook Contact Center, citing reference number 228 of April 9, 2022.” In a statement posted on social media, Ronaldo said: “It is never easy to face emotions in difficult times like the one we face. “Nevertheless, we must always have respect, patience and set an example for all young people who love beautiful play. “I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this fan to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of good fighting and athleticism.” Anthony Gordon’s goal in the first half gave Everton, who are threatened with relegation, three important points, while destroying United’s minimal hopes to finish in the top four in the process. Ronaldo returned to the starting line-up against Everton, having lost last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Leicester City due to illness, but found it difficult to influence. The defeat left United in seventh place, six points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur with no games at their disposal, facing a year of Champions League football. “If we play like we did here, we just don’t deserve it,” said interim manager Ralph Rangnick. “The players themselves should be willing to play international football, if possible the Champions League. “To qualify for Europe you have to be able to score in 95 minutes in such a game.”
