Former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for two games and fined £50k by the FA for hitting a fan’s mobile phone from his hand at Goodison Park. The 37-year-old had the altercation during a 1-0 loss at Goodison Park on April 9 for which the Portuguese were cautioned by Merseyside Police. He is currently a free agent after being released from Manchester United on Tuesday. He was also accused of acting improperly by the FA, and an impartial panel punished him with a ban and a large fine. The attacker acknowledged that his behavior following the conclusion of the Premier League game was inappropriate. Following a subsequent hearing, an impartial Regulatory Commission issued these fines after concluding that his behavior was both unlawful and violent.
“Managing emotions in trying situations like the one we’re in is never simple,” former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo said. “Even so, we must constantly show patience, and respect, and lead by example for all the young players of the beautiful game. As a gesture of good faith and sportsmanship, I would like to express my regret for my outburst and, if feasible, invite this fan to witness a match at Old Trafford.”
The suspension will be carried over when Ronaldo joins a new team in any nation, but it will not apply during the World Cup. While accepting the FA accusation, Cristiano Ronaldo asked for a private hearing in an effort to avoid a suspension. Ronaldo stated during the independent hearing that he approached the tunnel where Everton supporters were gathered with “genuine concern… for his own personal safety and well-being and leaving the field of play.” The panel disagreed, stating that the act was motivated by frustration and displeasure rather than worry for the man’s safety. The FA’s request for a three-game suspension for Ronaldo was also denied by the tribunal.
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