Amid Son’s Death, Ronaldo Will Miss Clash of Man United vs Liverpool

Amid Son’s Death, Ronaldo Will Miss Clash of Man United vs Liverpool

The 37-year-old Portuguese superstar will not be part of Ralf Rangnick’s squad for their Premier League trip to Anfield following the death of his baby twin boy on Monday

Following the untimely death of his infant child, Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of Manchester United’s matchday squad for their Premier League match against Liverpool on Tuesday.

The tragic news was revealed by the Portuguese superstar and his fiancée Georgina Rodriguez on Monday, who described their newborn baby boy as a “angel” and said their baby daughter was giving them “strength” through the emotional pain.

A club statement from United on Tuesday read: “Family is more important than everything and Ronaldo is supporting his loved ones at this immensely difficult time. We underline the family’s request for privacy.”

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The Portuguese superstar and his partner penned a joint statement which was posted on social media on Monday evening: “It is with our deepest sadness that we announce the passing of our baby boy. It’s the greatest pain any parent can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness.

“We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all their expert care and support. We are all devastated at this loss and we kindly ask for privacy at this very difficult time. Our baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you.”

Marcus Rashford has also led the response from his Man Utd team-mates in sending messages of support. The forward said: “Thoughts are with you and Georgina brother. I’m so sorry.” David de Gea also posted a heart in response to Ronaldo’s post. That followed United as a club stating their support, saying: “Your pain is our pain. Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time.”

Ronaldo’s mother, Dolores Aveiro, answered with a sad face emoji, while Ronaldo’s United colleagues Diogo Dalot and Alex Telles – with whom he is particularly close due to their native language being Portuguese – replied with love hearts, as did Donny van de Beek. “The thoughts and sympathies of everyone at the Premier League are with you and your family, Cristiano,” wrote the official Premier League Twitter account.

The Premier League encounter between Liverpool and United on Tuesday is significant for both teams, with the host side having the chance to leapfrog Manchester City at the top of the table. A draw or victory in the match in which they are strong favourites would be enough for Jurgen Klopp’s side to take top spot in the standings, albeit City will have played a game fewer.