‘He can still do many things here’: Messi told Barca to keep Ronaldinho in 2008 – but club did the opposite

In June 2008, Ronaldinho was one step away from leaving Barcelona – and this is when Leo Messi stepped up.

“Personally I would love it if Ronnie continued with us,” the Argentine told the media after the anti-racism charity match in which Ronaldinho scored a few beauties.

“I have always said that he is one of the best footballers in the world and I believe that he can still do many things at Barcelona.

“(…) He seemed well to me [during the game], recovered from the injury that prevented him from playing the last games for Barcelona. He showed that he continues to do things with the ball that are out of this world,” 21-year-old Messi concluded.

Ronaldinho and Messi each captained a team of international stars in the exhibition match that ended in a 7-7 draw. The legendary Brazilian bagged 2 goals and got 2 assists that night.

Less than 3 weeks later, the Brazilian left the club for Milan for €24.15m. Barcelona were said to be unhappy about Ronnie’s physical condition and lack of commitment in training.

Already the next season, Barcelona claimed the Champions League and won their famous sextuple.