Ronaldinho, the Brazilian football icon, has expressed strong disapproval of the current national team, branding it as possibly “one of the weakest squads in recent memory” and renouncing his support.
Through an Instagram post on Saturday, the recipient of the 2005 Ballon d’Or announced, “I’ve reached my limit. A somber period for fans of Brazilian football. Watching the matches is becoming increasingly disheartening.”
The 44-year-old didn’t hold back in his critique of the players’ skill level and mentality.
“This team may rank among the poorest in recent times, lacking strong leaders and predominantly comprising average players,” asserted Ronaldinho.
“I’ve been engrossed in football since childhood, well before pursuing a career in it, and I’ve never witnessed such dire circumstances. Absence of passion for the jersey, lack of determination, and most crucially: a dearth of footballing essence,” he added.
The former star of Barcelona, AC Milan, and PSG encapsulated his disillusionment by affirming, “I reiterate, the team’s performance is among the most disappointing spectacles I’ve witnessed. A genuine tragedy.”
Ronaldinho also disclosed his decision to boycott Brazil’s fixtures in the upcoming CONMEBOL Copa America competition.
“Hence, I announce my withdrawal. I shall not tune in to any CONMEBOL Copa America matches or rejoice in any triumph,” he declared.
In a recent friendly, Brazil played to a 1-1 stalemate against the USA in preparation for the impending CONMEBOL Copa America event. Brazil’s opening match is scheduled for Tuesday, June 25, versus Costa Rica, at 2 AM Nigerian time.
Ronaldinho was a member of the Brazilian squad that clinched the 2002 World Cup in unforgettable fashion.