Ronaldo & Man United send Christmas gifts to local children’s hospitals

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was ‘honored’ to take part in the club’s Christmas tradition once again.

Cristiano Ronaldo took part in Manchester United’s proud tradition of sending Christmas gifts and messages of support to patients and staff in three local children’s hospitals.

The 36-year-old described it as an ‘honor’ to be a part of such a tradition again, having done so during his first spell at the club between 2003 and 2009, but admitted that he was disappointed to not visit the hospitals in person as he did in the past.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ronaldo and the team couldn’t deliver the gifts themselves. They instead sent special video messages to each of the three hospitals in Greater Manchester.

“It is unfortunate that we could not visit the hospitals this year, as it is something I really liked to do when I was last here at Old Trafford,” said Ronaldo on the club’s website.

“It’s so important that we give our support to the young people at this special time of year and it’s an honor for me to be part of this again.”

🗣️ “It’s so important that we support young people at this special time of year.” – @Cristiano

Our men’s and women’s teams came together to wrap presents and send #Christmas messages to children in three local hospitals 🎁❤️

More 📲 https://t.co/AJLodNVXvp #SantasRedHelpers 🎅🏻 pic.twitter.com/WttoOIRxS1

— Manchester United Foundation (@MU_Foundation) December 24, 2021

What is Manchester United’s annual tradition?

The Manchester United foundation sets up a visit for players every Christmas to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, The Christie and Francis House Children’s Hospice in England.

However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the men’s and women’s teams could not visit the patients and staff.

Instead, they sent various Christmas gifts and pre-recorded video messages to the local hospitals. The United-themed gifts included shirts, hats, and annuals.

Ronaldo’s teammate Scott McTominay added: “Christmas time is such a special time of year; it’s important for the families and the kids to feel loved and feel that warmth around Christmas.

“The best part of being a footballer is seeing the smiles on fans’ faces.”

United return to action on Monday away to Newcastle in the Premier League.

From our hearts, to yours ❤

🎄 Our players wish you the best United family Christmas!#MUFC | #MUWomen pic.twitter.com/1hDvBtNAGz

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 24, 2021