Featured Image Credit: Sky Sports & Instagram: Cristiano Ronaldo
Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, Football, Manchester United, Liverpool, Premier League, Anfield
Rory O'Callaghan
Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, Football, Manchester United, Liverpool, Premier League, Anfield
Liverpool supporters have held a minute's applause for Cristiano Ronaldo and his family following the tragic death of his son.
Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez announced on Monday that their twin son had died during childbirth, adding that the birth of the child's sister was giving them "strength" to cope with the heartbreaking news.
"It is with our deepest sadness that we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away,” a statement read on Ronaldo's Instagram account.
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"It is the greatest pain that any parents 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."
Understandably, Ronaldo was not part of United's matchday squad for Tuesday's Premier League game against Liverpool at Anfield.
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United and Liverpool players both wore black armbands as a mark of respect for Ronaldo and his family.
In the seventh minute of the match, Liverpool and United fans rose to their feet and collectively held a minute's applause as a show of respect.
Liverpool fans then burst into a rendition of the club's famous anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone'.
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The act has received widespread praise on social media, with one fan describing it as a "beautiful gesture".
Ahead of the match, a number of United players had sent messages of support to Ronaldo and his family.
Marcus Rashford wrote on Instagram: "Thoughts are with you and Georgina brother. I’m so sorry."
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David De Gea, Diogo Dalot and Alex Telles all replied with love hearts to Ronaldo's post on Instagram.
Manchester United also issued a public message of support to Ronaldo, which read: "Your pain is our pain. Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time."
The Premier League's official account also wrote: "The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the Premier League are with you and your family, Cristiano."