Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up on social media after an unsavoury incident after Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to Everton on Saturday.
A video showing Ronaldo smash the phone of an Everton supporter as he made his way down the tunnel at Goodison Park went viral on social media.
The Portugal international appeared to throw the object to the ground with his right hand.
Ronaldo and his United team-mates were being booed and heckled as the incident unfolded. Several police officers were watching nearby and did not intervene at the time. He was carrying a shin pad in his left hand after suffering a nasty injury on his left leg.
Writing on Instagram, Ronaldo 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 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.”
The Red devils told Mirror Football shortly after the incident they were unwilling to comment at that moment in time and were looking into matters.
United remain seventh in the Premier League table following their defeat on Saturday, three points behind Tottenham in fourth having played a match more. Arsenal and West Ham are also in contention for the Champions League next campaign.
Everton’s winning goal came through Anthony Gordon. The 21-year-old’s first-half goal deflected off Harry Maguire to gift the Toffees a win. They’re now four points clear of Burnley in 18th and just two behind Leeds in 16th.
