Cristiano Ronaldo Receives Police Caution for Knocking Phone Out of Fan's Hand

Merseyside Police announced on Wednesday that Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo was given a conditional caution for knocking a phone out of an Everton supporter's hands after an April 9 match at Goodison Park, according to the Associated Press.

Per the AP, "Under British law, a caution is essentially a warning given out by police for a minor crime if the person admits to the offense. A conditional caution means the person must also fulfil a certain obligation, such as replacing damaged property."

Merseyside Police called the situation "concluded" on Wednesday.

Video of Ronaldo knocking a phone out of a teen fan's hands following United's 1-0 loss against Everton made its way onto social media back in April, prompting the investigation.

Sarah Kelly told the Liverpool Echo in April that it was her son, 14-year-old Jake Harding, who had his phone knocked out of his hands by Ronaldo.

"He filmed all the United players walking through," she said. "And then he lowered his phone because Ronaldo had pulled down his sock and his leg was bleeding. He lowered his phone to see what it was—he didn't even speak. Ronaldo then just walked past, with a terrible, terrible temper and smashed the phone out of my son's hand and carried on walking."

Ronaldo issued an apology on Instagram following the confrontation:

"It's never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing. Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game. I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship."

The Football Association is expected to undergo its own investigation into the matter now that Merseyside Police has concluded its inquiry, per the BBC.

Ronaldo, 37, remains in a state of flux at Manchester United, with reports that he wants to secure a move elsewhere this season to play Champions League football and reportedly has days where he "eats lunch alone in the canteen at Carrington, and he has been seen flapping his arms about in training and attempting to argue against the high-pressing approach favoured by the new manager," per Adam Crafton of The Athletic.

It is one of many ongoing dramas for Manchester United and new manager Erik ten Hag, as the club have lost their first two matches against Brighton and Brentford by a combined score of 6-1.