Marcus Rashford has led the condolences towards Cristiano Ronaldo and his family after the Manchester United star's baby son tragically died.
Ronaldo announced the sad passing of his son on Monday evening in a statement released on behalf of himself and long-term partner Georgina Rodriguez. The baby boy was one of twins he was to share with Rodriguez, their second and third children together.
But sadly the boy has passed away soon after his birth, leaving Ronaldo and his family heartbroken. Ronaldo paid tribute to the doctors and nurses who worked to save his son as he revealed his 'pain' at the loss.
"It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away. It's the greatest pain any parents can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness," Ronaldo's statement read.
"We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all the 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."
Team-mate Rashford led the condolences towards Ronaldo and his family, offering his support. The attacker said on Twitter : "Thoughts are with you and Georgina brother. I’m so sorry."
Diogo Dalot, Alex Telles and Donny van de Beek all replied to the post with love hearts to send their support.
Red Devils keeper David de Gea quote-tweeted Ronaldo's statement with a simple heart emoji.
Rashford was joined by former Tottenham and Everton star Gary Lineker, who also offered his condolences. The Match of the Day host wrote: "Terribly sad news. Sincere condolences to you and your family."
United themselves expressed their deep sadness at the news. The official club Twitter account posted a message saying: "Your pain is our pain, @Cristiano Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time."
The official Premier League account also sent their condolences, writing: "The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the Premier League are with you and your family, Cristiano."
Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt and Juventus star Alvaro Morata both replied to Ronaldo's statement with the prayer emoji. And TV presenter Piers Morgan also sent a message expressing his sadness, writing: "Heartbreaking news. My deepest condolences to you and all your family."
Former side Juventus also said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Georgina and the whole family during this time."
And football legend Pele sent the message: "My friend, I send you my prayers and my feelings at this very difficult time. May God comfort your hearts and enlighten every step of the way."
Ronaldo's sister delivered a poignant response to the desperately sad news, with a clear reference to their father Denis. He passed away from liver failure in 2005, with Kaita Aveiro expressing her belief that Ronaldo's son was with him.
“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," Aveiro wrote alongside pictures of Rodriguez and Ronaldo with her two children.
