RONALDINHO has blasted his beloved Brazil as ‘one of the worst teams’ he’s ever seen – and even vowed to boycott their games at Copa America.
The former playmaker won the 2002 World Cup and 1999 Copa America with his homeland during a glittering career.
But Ronaldinho been left reeling with the lack of passion in this current Brazil squad, compounded by the lack of big name stars in the 26 man squad.
Goalkeeper Ederson was earlier removed from the squad due to the eye injury he sustained in the Premier League win over Tottenham.
And star player Neymar will miss the tournament through injury, along with Prem stars Richarlison and Casemiro who were not selected after poor domestic seasons.
Ronaldinho claimed that “everything is missing” compared to the superstars of yesteryear, after Brazil drew 1-1 with the USA on Thursday.
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Ronaldinho, 44, wrote on his Instagram: “That’s it guys, I will not watch any Brazil game at the Copa America nor celebrate any victory.
“I’ve had enough. It’s a sad moment for those who love Brazilian football.
“It’s hard now to find the spirit to watch the games. It’s one of the worst teams in the recent years, no respectable leaders, only average players for the majority.
“I’ve never seen a situation as bad as this. Lack of love for Brazil shirt and lack of football.
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“Our performance has been one of the worst things I’ve ever seen, it’s such a shame. I therefore declare my resignation. I will not watch a single game.”
Modern Brazil teams have failed to live up to their predecessors in recent years.
Before beating England in March, Brazil were on a four match winless run, after losing to Uruguay, Colombia, Argentina and drawing with Venezuela.
They then scrambled to find a last minute winner from Endrick against Mexico last week, before their meek draw with the USA.
Ronaldinho also told YouTube channel Cartoloucos: “Things are not going well.
“Grit is lacking, dedication is lacking, everything is lacking.
“Everything is missing, drive, joy… They need to play well, so I’m not going to watch any games. I’m going to abandon Brazil.”
One of the standout players in Brazilian football history, Ronaldinho scored 33 goals in 99 international appearances between 1999 and 2013.
Meanwhile, Qatar 2022 World Cup winners and Copa America holders Argentina are favourites to win the tournament in the United States.
Brazil are currently in sixth place in South American qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
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They were beaten on penalties by Croatia in the quarter-finals of the 2022 tournament.
Brazil’s first game at Copa America comes against Costa Rica on June 24, with Colombia and Paraguay also in Group D.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
