Cristiano Ronaldo returned to training with Manchester United on Wednesday in the wake of the tragic death of his newborn son.
The Portugal striker was granted compassionate leave by United for as long as he needed after revealing the heartbreaking news on Monday evening that one of his newborn twins had passed away.
But the five-time World Player of the Year opted to head into United’s Carrington training base on Wednesday, when it is understood he took part in training before returning home.
Ronaldo was pictured in the back of a black people carrier wearing earphones on the way into the club’s training base.
It remains to be seen if Ronaldo is involved in United’s Premier League game away to Arsenal on Saturday lunchtime but his willingness to return to training would suggest he could be in the squad.
Liverpool fans sang ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ and joined in a minute’s applause in an emotional tribute to Ronaldo at Tuesday’s match, which former United captain Gary Neville described as “a massive touch of class”. “I’m sure if Cristiano Ronaldo is watching he would have welcomed it,” Neville said.
United said in a statement before the game that “family is more important than everything” and that Ronaldo was “supporting his loved ones at this immensely difficult time”. The club said Ronaldo and family had requested privacy.
Ralf Rangnick, United’s interim manager, offered his support to Ronaldo. “This is the worst that can happen,” he said. “I’m the father of two sons myself so I’m fully aware of what that means and we’re all behind him. We’re all with him and we wish that him and his family are all strong together.”
The sporting world rallied around Ronaldo in the aftermath of the news with well wishes from across football and beyond.
In a statement posted on his social media channels and addressed from himself and Rodriguez, Ronaldo had said: “It is with our deepest sadness we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away.
“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.”
