London: Star striker and former Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a two-match ban and a £50,000 fine by the Football Association (FA) for hitting a fan’s mobile phone at Everton earlier this year.
On 9 April he had a brawl after his then-team Manchester United lost 1–0 to Everton at Goodison Park. According to Sky Sports, he was warned by Merseyside Police.
The FA has also accused him of improper conduct. An independent panel sentenced him to suspension and a fine. However, this ban will not apply in the World Cup and the punishment will apply whenever the star striker joins a club.
Ronaldo issued an apology on Instagram, saying, It is never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments like the ones we are facing. Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, and patient and set an example for all the young people who Love the beautiful game. I want to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a match at Old Trafford as a sign of fair play and the spirit of the game.
Ronaldo accepted the charges laid by the FA but requested a personal hearing to avoid suspension.
