Liverpool and Manchester United fans will come together in support of Cristiano Ronaldo tonight, while both sets of players will wear black armbands at Anfield following the tragic death of the Portuguese star’s baby son.
Ronaldo and girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez made the heartbreaking announcement via the footballer’s social media channels on Monday evening that their newborn twin boy had passed away.
“It is with great sadness that we have to announce our baby boy has passed away. It is the greatest pain that any parent can feel,” they said.
“Only the birth of our baby girl gives us strength to live this 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.”
Manchester United have since confirmed that Ronaldo will play no part tonight as Ralf Rangnick’s side head to Merseyside for a north-west derby clash in the Premier League.
“Family is more important than everything and Ronaldo is supporting his loved ones at this immensely difficult time,” the club said in a statement. “As such, we can confirm that he will not feature in the match against Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday evening and we underline the family’s request for privacy. Cristiano, we are all thinking of you and sending strength to the family.”
You have our complete love and support, @Cristiano ❤
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 19, 2022
Despite Ronaldo’s absence, both sets of fans are set to put rivalries aside to show their support for the 37-year-old and his grieving family following the tragic news.
Liverpool supporters on social media first spread word of plans to hold a round of applause in the seventh minute of Tuesday’s high-profile fixture that could have huge ramifications for the title race and battle for a top-four finish, with the number representing the one famously worn by Ronaldo for the majority of his illustrious playing career.
If you are attending like myself please applause on the 7th minute to show respect to Cristiano Ronaldo and is family through this heartbreaking time 💔😢 pic.twitter.com/8jtmCEhOna
— Terry Birkett (@TezBirkett) April 18, 2022
One Facebook post read: “If you are lucky enough to be attending the game, then please show a mark of respect to Cristiano Ronaldo and his family by taking part in the round of applause which will be held in the seventh minute.
“Rivalries should be set aside in heartbreaking circumstances such as this. YNWA CR7 Jr.”
United have now announced ahead of kick-off that both sets of supporters will join in with that applause, while the Red Devils squad’s request to wear black armbands as a mark of respect has been granted and reciprocated by their Liverpool counterparts.
