Cristiano Ronaldo has joined figures across the world in paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The Portuguese legend took to Instagram to offer an emotional message, after the news of her tragic passing was announced prior to Manchester United‘s Europa League clash with Real Sociedad.
A moment’s silence was observed prior to kick off at Old Trafford in memory of the Queen, as Ronaldo started the first Europa League game in 20.
Cristiano Ronaldo has issued a moving tribute to Queen Elizabeth II on social media
Ronaldo wrote: ‘Seven years of my career were played in the Premier League, making this my 8th season living in England.
‘Throughout these years, I’ve felt the everlasting love of the UK for it’s Queen, and how important Her Majesty was and will forever be to the British people.
‘I pay my respect to her memory and I mourn this irreplaceable loss with the country that I’ve learned to call home. My thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family.’
The now-37-year-old first arrived in the UK in 2003 when he joined United for the first time, and spent six years in the country before departing for Real Madrid.
He later returned and is now into the second of his two-year deal at Old Trafford, and as such has spent almost eight years of his professional career in England.
In her memory, the Premier League and the Football Association have postponed all matches this weekend, despite the UK Government stating they were under no obligation to do so.
The Premier League and English Football League have postponed this weekend’s fixtures
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport have issues their guidance for sporting events this weekend as the country continues to mourn for Queen Elizabeth II
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) held a call with all major sports at 9.30am to determine the plan of action and left the decision over events up to the individual organisations.
Ronaldo has spent almost eight years of his professional career living in England
However, the Premier League and EFL released a statement saying they had made the decision to postpone this weekend’s fixtures to honour Queen Elizabeth’s ‘extraordinary life and contribution to the nation’.
The Premier League released the following statement: ‘At a meeting this morning [Friday], Premier League clubs paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
‘To honour her extraordinary life and contribution to the nation, and as a mark of respect, this weekend’s Premier League match round will be postponed, including Monday evening’s game.’
Richard Masters, Premier League Chief Executive, added: ‘We and our clubs would like to pay tribute to Her Majesty’s long and unwavering service to our country.
Get the latest news & gossip delivered straight to your inbox
‘As our longest-serving monarch, she has been an inspiration and leaves behind an incredible legacy following a life of dedication.’