Cristiano Ronaldo announces the death of baby son

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced the death of his baby son.

The footballer was expecting twins with his partner Georgina Rodríguez but on Monday evening (April 18) confirmed the devastating news of his baby son's death on social media.

The couple had announced on social media in December they were expecting a boy and a girl.

Ronaldo posted on Instagram: "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."

Georgina Rodriguez and Cristiano Ronaldo
Ian West

"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 doctor 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", wrote the Manchester United star.

Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) with girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez and son Cristiano Ronaldo Junior.
Adam Davy

In late October last year the pair wrote on Instagram "delighted to announce we are expecting twins," alongside a photo of them with two sonograms.

The couple wrote: "Our hearts are full of love-we can't wait to meet you #blessed."

The footballer has four children. Cristiano and Georgina have a daughter called Alana Martina, who was born in November 2017.

His eldest son is 11-year-old Cristiano Jr, whose mother's identity has been kept anonymous by the footballer.

United’s top goalscorer is also father to four-year-old twins Eva Maria and Mateo, who were born via an unknown surrogate in 2017.

The Portuguese footballer was praised for his performance on Saturday as he scored a hat-trick in Manchester United's 3-2 win over Norwich City.