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Ronaldinho to retire?
Published by Ian John on September 23, 2009
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Perhaps the most shocking news this week comes from Italy where reports in a Spanish newspaper have suggested that out of sorts AC Milan star, Ronaldinho, could be on the verge of quitting football altogether.
The Brazilian ace has moved quickly to repudiate the suggestions, claiming that they are “sensationalist” and that he intends not only to return to form for Milan, but also win his place back in the Brazilian squad ahead of this summers World Cup finals in South Africa.
The story seems to stem from the fact that AC Milan’s Brazilian coach, Leonardo, left Ronaldinho out of Milan’s starting eleven for their league game last weekend, preferring Dutch veteran Clarence Seedorf instead. The player has also been accused by some in the media of living his life almost as if he was retired, which seems to be another veiled reference to the playboy lifestyle that Ronaldinho is said to enjoy alongside his footballing career.
While any spurious claims of an imminent retirement seem to be more mischief making by the Spanish press than a verifiable fact, it is worth noting that for the past two years, Ronaldinho’s fall from grace has been somewhat brutal. Widely lauded as the best player in the world a few years back. He lost form for Barcelona as well as having a run in with coach Pep Guardiola and some teammates, he was shipped out to Milan where his form has not really improved any. He has also lost his place in the Brazilian national squad under new manager Dunga whose new look Brazil look a far better team without Ronaldinho, than they did with his stuttering performances as part of their team. Within the space of three years he has gone from being undoubtedly the worlds best, to an almost forgotten man.
Retirement may be some way off, but it is clear that the Brazilian needs to apply himself as never before if he is to reclaim his place in the Brazil squad and his position alongside the worlds finest players.
Image Courtesy of ***Stemph*** on Flickr.com
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Nabyl Charania on Wed, 23rd Sep 2009 1:47 pm
A true fall from grace, he needs to be motivated, maybe a move to the MLS
Milan get Becks and the Galaxy get Ronaldinho 
Diego Zidane on Wed, 23rd Sep 2009 2:00 pm
Ronaldinho used to be the man, not sure what happened, at least he’s enjoying life in Milan.
Naheem Charania on Wed, 23rd Sep 2009 2:17 pm
Maybe it’s because he wears number 80! I’ve always been a fan of Diego in Brazil’s midfield over any of their current performers.