Cristiano Ronaldo says his newborn daughter is giving him and his partner "strength" following the death of his baby boy.
The Manchester United star has announced on social media that he and partner Georgina Rodriguez are mourning the loss of their baby boy, but they have paid tribute to his twin sister, who is a source of solace during their difficult time.
The couple issued a joint statement on social media, which read: "It is with our deepest sadness that we announce the passing of our baby boy. It's the greatest pain any parent 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."
Ronaldo now has five children following the birth of their baby girl. Ronaldo met Georgina when she was working as a shop assistant for Gucci in the Spanish capital while the forward was playing for Real Madrid. She has formed a close bond with Ronaldo's other children in Cristiano Jr, 11, twins Mateo and Eva and the couple had their first child together after Georgina gave birth to Alana before falling pregnant again last year.
Tributes have poured in following the devastating news. United responded to the 37-year-old's social media post by saying: "Your pain is our pain, @Cristiano. Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time."
Marcus Rashford has also led the response from his Man Utd team-mates in sending messages of support. The forward said: "Thoughts are with you and Georgina brother. I’m so sorry." David de Gea also posted a heart in response to Ronaldo's post.
Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro has also addressed the tragedy, referencing their father, who passed away in 2005. She wrote an open letter that read: "I love you and my heart is with you over there. May God take care of you and strengthen your path more and more. Our angel is already on father’s lap. And our little girl is there firm and strong and full of health and is going to show us with every day that only love matters."
