Cristiano Ronaldo is the focus of a police inquiry in Merseyside as a result of an incident at the end of Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Everton in which the Manchester United striker appeared to smack a mobile phone from the hand of a supporter.
While the 37-year-old subsequently apologized on Instagram and invited the fan to a game at Old Trafford, police are now appealing for witnesses after video of the incident was posted on social media as the Portuguese headed for the tunnel at the Goodison park was.
A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: “We can confirm that we are working with Manchester United Football Club and Everton FC following reports of an alleged attack at the Everton v Manchester United football match in Goodison.
“As the players left the pitch at 2:30pm, it was reported that a boy was attacked by one of the away teams as they left the pitch. Investigations are ongoing and officers are currently working with Everton Football Club to review CCTV footage and are conducting extensive witness interviews to determine if an offense has taken place.
“Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Merseyside Police Social Media Desk via Twitter MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police Contact Center quoting reference number 228 dated 9 April 2022.”
United’s setback at Goodison Park left them six points behind Tottenham in last place in the Champions League, with both sides having seven games to go, a disappointing performance at the end of a particularly poor season.
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Taking to Instagram, Ronaldo said: “It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments like the ones we’re facing. Despite this, we must always be respectful, patient and set an example to all young players 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 show of fair play and sportsmanship.”
Later on Saturday, a United spokesman said: “We are aware of an alleged incident following today’s game at Everton and the club will cooperate with any police investigation.”