Police are investigating an incident in which Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo apparently ripped a phone from a fan’s hand as he walked off the pitch following a loss at Everton.
The Liverpool police force is looking for witnesses after the spread of images on social networks after the game that United lost 1-0 on Saturday at Goodison Park in the Premier League.

“As the players were leaving the field at around 2.30pm, a child was reported to have been assaulted by one of the visiting team members as they were leaving the field,” Merseyside Police said on Sunday. “Investigations are ongoing and officers are currently working with Everton to review CCTV (video) footage and extensive efforts are being sought for witnesses to establish whether a crime has been committed.”

The Portuguese star indicated that “it is never easy to deal with emotions in difficult times like the one we are facing.”

In a message posted on Instagram on Saturday, Ronaldo added: “I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, would like to invite the fan to a match at Old Trafford as a sign of fair play.”

“However, we always have to be respectful, patient and set an example for all young people who love this beautiful sport,” he added.

United slipped back to seventh place and six points behind the four places that give them access to the next edition of the Champions League.

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