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BARCELONA

Ronaldinho: “Football needs people like Messi”

The Brazilian was in New York City this week to open Barcelona’s new office in the city and didn’t hold back in his praise for either his former teammate or Neymar
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Ronaldinho: “Football needs people like Messi”
GERMAN PARGA/FC BARCELONA

Ronaldinho, a Barcelona ambassador

Barcelona legend Ronaldinho was in New York City on Tuesday to mark the opening of the club’s new office in the city. The Brazilian, who is currently without a club but has not officially announced his retirement, is an ambassador for the LaLiga giants in the United States.

Messi and Neymar make history

Speaking to FCBarcelona.com, Ronaldinho was effusive in his praise for Barcelona stars Leo Messi and Neymar and said he was delighted to see them “making history” at the club.

“We all hope that Messi continues as he is. He is my friend and I admire him; football needs more people like him,” he added.

Ronaldinho and Messi played together at Barcelona until the Brazilian's departure for AC Milan in 2008.
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Ronaldinho and Messi played together at Barcelona until the Brazilian's departure for AC Milan in 2008.

The former Barcelona star, whose arrival at the Camp Nou in 2003 kick-started the club’s revival after years of instability and lack of success, also praised his compatriot Neymar. “He’s made history with Brazil, winning the Olympic Gold. I hope all his dreams come true, also at Barça. The team is playing at a very high level and I hope that they finish the season as well as possible.”