Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has launched a verbal attack on the current national team, declaring it is perhaps “one of the worst teams in recent years” and that he is resigning as a fan.
In a statement via his Instagram on Saturday, the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner said, “That’s it folks, I’ve had enough. This is a sad moment for those who love Brazilian soccer. It’s getting hard to find the spirit to watch the games.”
The 44-year-old did not mince his words in criticising the quality and attitude of the players.
“This is perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years, it has no respectable leaders, only average players for the majority,” Ronaldinho stated.
“I’ve been following football since I was a kid, long before I thought about becoming a player, and I’ve never seen a situation as bad as this. Lack of love in the shirt, lack of grit and the most important of all: football.”
The former Barcelona, AC Milan and PSG star summed up his disappointment by declaring, “I’ll repeat, our performance has been one of the worst things I’ve ever seen. Such a shame.”
Ronaldinho further announced he would be boycotting Brazil’s matches at the upcoming CONMEBOL Copa America tournament.
“I therefore declare my resignation. I will not watch any CONMEBOL Copa America game, nor celebrate any victory,” he said.
On Thursday, Brazil played a 1-1 draw against the USA in a friendly ahead of the upcoming CONMEBOL Copa America tournament. Brazil will kick off their first game on Tuesday, June 25 against Costa Rica, 2am Nigerian time.
Ronaldinho was part of the Brazil squad that won the 2002 World Cup in an unforgettable style.
