Police launch investigation after Cristiano Ronaldo allegedly 'smashes phone from teen's hand'

Merseyside Police have launched an investigation after Cristiano Ronaldo allegedly 'smashed a mobile phone from a teenager's hand'. The force is appealing for witnesses after footage appeared to capture the Manchester United forward knocking an object out of a person's hand as he walked back to the dressing room following their 1-0 defeat to Everton on Saturday.

The striker has since apologised for his 'outburst' on social media. In a statement on Instagram, Ronaldo said: "I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible, invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship".

Manchester United said they were 'looking into' the incident. Police have today confirmed that they are investigating a report of an 'assault on a boy'.

READ MORE: Mum slams Cristiano Ronaldo after claims star 'smashed' teenage son's mobile phone from his hand

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: “We can confirm that we are liaising with Manchester United Football Club and Everton FC following reports of an alleged assault at the Everton v Manchester United football match at Goodison. As players were leaving the pitch at 2.30pm, it was reported that a boy was assaulted by one of the away team as they left the pitch.

"Inquiries are under way and officers are currently working with Everton Football Club to review CCTV footage and are carrying out extensive witness enquiries to establish if an offence has taken place. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police Contact centre quoting reference number 228 of 9 April 2022.”

Sarah Kelly said it was her son, 14-year-old Jake Harding, who was