Cristiano Ronaldo cautioned by police after smashing phone out of autistic boy’s hand
CRISTIANO Ronaldo has been cautioned by police after smashing a little boy’s phone on the floor.
The Manchester United striker appeared to slap Jacob Harding’s hand as he left the pitch after his side were beaten by Everton at Goodison Park last season.
He later apologised to the 14-year-old, who has autism.
Earlier this month, the Portuguese star was interviewed by police under caution in relation to an alleged assault and criminal damage.
In a statement on Wednesday, Merseyside Police told the Mirror: “We can confirm that a 37-year-old man voluntarily attended and was interviewed under caution in relation to an allegation of assault and criminal damage.
“The allegation relates to an incident following the Everton v Manchester United football match at Goodison Park on Saturday 9 April.
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“The matter has been dealt with by way of conditional caution. The matter has now concluded.”
The paper reports that Ronaldo has agreed to pay compensation to the schoolboy.
Man Utd bosses confirmed they won’t be taking action back in April.
It is understood chiefs were happy with the ace’s apology.
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In a post online, 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 apologise 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 had been visibly angry as he made his way off the turf following the Red Devils’ dismal loss at the hands of struggling Everton.
The United superstar appeared to lash out as he headed back to the away team dressing room.
STAR’S APOLOGY
After the incident, Jacob’s mum Sarah Kelly said: “At full-time the United players started walking off.
“We were right by the tunnel – my son was there, videoing them all.
“Ronaldo then just walked past, with a terrible, terrible temper, and smashed the phone out of his hand.”
She said she was left in tears and Jacob was in “complete shock”.
“He’s really upset and it’s put him off going to the game again. We had an absolutely brilliant day up until those final few seconds,” she said.
The news today comes amid a difficult few weeks for Ronaldo.
Jacob was really upset – it’s put him off going to the game again
Mum Sarah Kelly
His future has been the subject of intense speculation all summer, with reports he wants to leave United in order to play Champions League football.
This week, former United team-mate Gary Neville implored the star to “stand up now and speak,” criticising his decision to wait to tell fans what’s really happening.
But Ronaldo has since issued a statement to say “the truth” would be revealed when he participates in an interview in a couple of weeks time.
He added: “The media is telling lies. I have a notebook and in the last few months of the 100 news I made, only 5 were right.”
Ronaldo returned to pre-season late amid the reports of his exit, and was subsequently only named on the bench to face Brighton on the opening day.
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While he was powerless to help United overcome that challenge, he then played the full 90 minutes in the humiliation The Red Devils suffered in their 4-0 defeat at Brentford last weekend.
They play Liverpool next.
