Ronaldinho pens emotional message on his retirement as Messi, Beckham and co pay tribute to him

[Photo: Courtesy]

Soccer fans of the 21st century know him by many names. He is considered one of the football ‘gods’ to ever grace the pitch alongside the likes of Argentines Lionel Messi and Diego Maradon, or his compatriots Pelle and Ronaldo Nazario and Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo.

To some, he is just the most skillful, ethical and complete soccer player that gives satisfaction to both opposing fans whenever he would step into the pitch to give a stab to the game.

 This was once witnessed when he staged a stellar performance against Real Madrid in Barcelona win, to the applause of disgruntled Madrid fans back in the days.

Ronaldinho Gaucho, as many would call him announced his retirement from football on Tuesday January 16, when his brother and agent Roberto Assis said that the ‘it is over’ for the Brazilian.

Perhaps with many doubts lingering over the authenticity of the news, the reaction of the former Barca star may have come at the most opportune time.

Former Brazilian International posted an emotional message to the fans in appreciation of the impressive encounter he had with the game throughout his career. A message that was posted on Thursday morning on Facebook by the athlete is lengthy but received quite a number of reactions.

 While writing his post, he became nostalgic about his career path when thanked God for allowing him to do ‘what he loves to most’ for 20 years, and also remembering his 10 years are an academy player.

Dinho extended a hand of gratitude to the press, his family, coaches and former teammates for the support. He further revealed his plans to commence a farewell, which his agent said will be in Europe among other continents.

Football stars poured messages of goodwill to the icon who is perceived to have embraced everyone on the pitch. Former Liverpool star Steven Gerard posted a message of tribute on his Instagram page wishing the player well. His compatriot David Beckham who played with Ronaldinho at AC Milan and against him while at Real Madrid also followed suit. ‘Welcome to retirement…It was great playing with you and against you. Enjoy your retirement,’ Beckham reacted.

Lionel Messi having played with Ronaldinho at Barcelona and going as far as inheriting his famous jersey, number 10 was not left out. Messi posted a touching message on his Instagram page thanking his former teammate for helping settle at the Camp Nou dressing room.

“As I always said, I learnt a lot being by your side. I will always be grateful to you for how easy you made things for me when I first came into the dressing room.” The Argentine added a reminder of how the world football will remember “Ronnie” for his flashy smile.

On the day when the news about his retirement circulated, his former clubs reacted by wishing him. Barcelona and AC Milan could not hide their emotional attachment with the player as they posted messages of goodwill to him.

Ronaldinho won one Uefa Champions League trophy and two La Liga titles with Barcelona, and Serie A title with AC Milan before moving back to Brazil. He was also part of the Brazilian team that lifted the World Cup in 2002.

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