“Leonardo made me reborn”, Ronaldinho pays tribute to former AC Milan Coach
Former Milan Coach and club favourite Leonardo departed the club this summer on a negative note with club President Silvio Berlusconi openly criticizing his squad selections and the tactics applied during matches. Even though the new season has begun, President Berlusconi has hit out at his former employee for not taking his advice on certain matters. Leonardo was not the one to buckle under pressure and openly declared that he would take his leave if the club owner wasn’t happy with him. True to his word, the coach left rather than playing as Berlusconi’s puppet.
Ronaldinho Gaucho on the other hand only left with fond memories of the charming coach in his mind. “I’m reborn, thanks to Leonardo” echoed the Milan playmaker on the eve of Milan’s Champions League fixture against AJ Auxerre of France.
“After winning everything with Barcelona, it wasn’t easy for me,” declared the twice World Player of the Year award winner. “But thanks to Leonardo who is a great coach, I revived.”
Ronaldinho went on to praise the freedom that was granted to him by the former coach. In particular he was thankful to the trust put in him by the coach even went things weren’t so rosy for the playmaker forward. Ronaldinho has also sent a signal to the opposition in all competitions by declaring that he is back to the Barcelona best.
“Now I have returned to the levels that I achieved in Barcelona. When a player plays really well, people get used to it and expect more of the same. And when he plays a little off the mark that is where people start making up stories.”
Certainly Ronaldinho isn’t happy with people criticizing his form and wants people to be patient with their stars.
Whether or not he is back to his Barcelona best is up for discussion and debate but his importance to the current Milan cause is vital. Ronaldinho topped the Serie A assist chart last season with 16 assists while also finding the back of the net on no fewer than 12 occasions.
The recent acquisition of Robinho by AC Milan has flared rumours further that Gaucho will leave the club in the days to come. Ronaldinho’s most recent comments however suggest otherwise. His intentions are to go for glory. Much will depend on the form of the playmaker if Milan is to mount a serious title challenge.
Ronaldinho also took some time out to speak about his time in France with Paris Saint-Germain. The club launched the explosive playmaker on to the European stage. Coincidentally, Ronaldinho made his debut in France against Auxerre.
“The first two seasons in France will remain forever in my heart. I lived two magnificent years there. I remember so many goals and actions at that stage. These emotions are just impossible to forget.”
Gaucho was also full of praise for the former PSG President Laurent Perp for being so great with him throughout all the years.
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