If it’s not one thing with athletes and a fan’s cell phone camera, it’s another. This time it involves a young soccer fan, a phone, and Cristiano Ronaldo after Manchester United’s 1-0 Premier League loss Saturday at Everton.
Police have opened an investigation and the Portuguese soccer uber star has apologized, as a video posted online shows the 37-year-old forward limping off the pitch before appearing to bend down and strike a phone out of a young fan’s hands.
“As players were leaving the pitch at 2:30 p.m. it was reported that a boy was assaulted by one of the away team as they left the pitch,” a Merseyside Police statement read.
“Inquiries are underway and officers are currently working with Everton Football Club to review CCTV footage and are carrying out extensive witness enquiries to establish if an offense has taken place.”
The defeat was a significant blow to United’s Champions League qualifying hopes—it’s now seventh in the Premier League and six points off Tottenham Hotspur in fourth.
“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.”
An Everton spokesperson said the team is attempting to contact the boy’s mother to invite the pair to the match against Leicester City on April 20.
