Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez announce death of baby son

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that his son has died during childbirth, with the Manchester United forward stating that only the birth of the child’s twin sister is providing him and his partner Georgina Rodríguez with the strength “to live this moment”.

The 37-year-old posted the news on Instagram on Monday evening. “It is with our deepest sadness that we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away,” the statement said. “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.”

In October Ronaldo stated he and Rodríguez were expecting twins, the Portuguese already having four children, two of which are twins. “Delighted to announce we are expecting twins,” a statement at the time said. “Our hearts are full of love - we can’t wait to meet you.” Rodriguez has previously stated how loving a father Ronaldo is. “Every day by your side is happy and special,” she said on Instagram. “We love you indefinitely. Thank you so much to the best dad in the world.”

United travel to Anfield on Tuesday to play Liverpool in the Premier League. Whether the forward will feel ready to make himself available for the game remains unclear. Responding to Ronaldo’s news, United posted a message on Twitter. It read: “Your pain is our pain, @Cristiano Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time.”

Ronaldo returned to United in August for a second spell having played for the club between from 2003 to 2009. He is United’s top scorer this season, with his hat-trick in the 3-2 win against Norwich City on Saturday taking his tally to 21 goals in all competitions.

It was the 60th hat-trick of the Portuguese’s career, during which he has scored 807 goals in total and been named five times as Fifa World Player of the Year and Ballon d’Or winner. Ronaldo has also won the Champions League on five occasions and claimed league titles with United, Real Madrid and Juventus.