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Brazilian legend Ronaldinho has revealed in an interview that he was very close to joining two English clubs – Manchester United in 2003, and Blackburn Rovers in 2011. Then 23 years old, the midfielder was playing at Paris Saint-Germain and then moved to Barcelona after informing the Red Devils that wouldn’t won’t be able to join United after promising Sandro Rossell that he would join the Catalan club if he was elected club president.
“It almost happened with United. It was a matter of 48 hours, but Sandro Rosell had told me way before I got the offer: “If I become Barça president, will you come?” I said yes,” Ronaldinho answered to the questions regarding his possible move to Old Trafford.
“It was only a matter of details with United when Rosell called to say he was going to win the elections there. And I had promised to him that I’d play for Barca. It was a quick negotiation. I told the English I had chosen Barca. It was the right choice.”
Brazilians love Barcelona: Ronaldinho
Barcelona has been a famous destination for Brazilian players over the years and Ronaldinho expressed that he shares the love towards the Catalan club with his compatriots. Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Neymar and Dani Alves are some of the famous Brazilians who have donned the Blaugrana shirt over the years.
“Brazilians have always loved Barca. We have a history there. Off the pitch it is like nowhere else in Europe, so we are always happy playing there. I miss Barcelona a lot. I had five fantastic seasons there, at a club that likes strikers and talented players.”
The 35-year-old spent five seasons at the Camp Nou (2003 to 2008) and scored 94 goals for the club. He won two La Liga titles and a Champions League trophy as well during his time in Barcelona.
Ronaldinho rejected Blackburn to return to Brazil
Ronaldinho then moved to AC Milan in 2008 where he played for the next three seasons. In 2011, Blackburn Rovers approached the World Cup winner but he chose to move back to Brazil and join Flamengo.
“About Blackburn: we talked to them, but I wanted to come back home to Brazil,” he said.
The Brazilian is famous for receiving a standing ovation from the Real Madrid fans when his two goals helped Barcelona trounce the Blancos 3-0 at the Bernabeu back in 2005. And the Brazilian conveyed his happiness over the gesture from the Bernabeu faithful when he was asked about it in the interview.
“I am very proud. When it happened, I barely noticed what was happening. I just scored and celebrated. As far as I know, only [Diego] Maradona got that too in Madrid. I was twice as happy to know my hero in football was the last to have that honour at the Bernabeu. I’ve talked to Maradona about that moment and shared notes. It’s a great memory.”
Recently, Andres Iniesta also received a standing applause from the Bernabeu crowd upon his substitution in the El Clasico, after his stellar performance helped the Blaugranes overpower Real Madrid.
