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Published 12:29 IST, April 6th 2020

Ronaldinho adopted Lionel Messi as a younger brother, claims Barcelona legend Xavi

Former Barcelona star Ronaldinho adopted Lionel Messi as his younger brother when the Argentine had just joined the first team, said club legend Xavi.

Reported by: Minaam Ansari
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Former Barcelona star Ronaldinho adopted Lionel Messi as his younger brother, revealed club legend Xavi. Ronaldinho and Messi played alongside each other at Barcelona for four years. The duo is thought to be very close both on and off the field. Xavi’s statements have now confirmed the same.

Also Read | Ronaldinho jail update: Is Lionel Messi Helping Brazilian Get Out Of Prison In Paraguay?

Ronaldinho adopted Lionel Messi: Xavi

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Ronaldo de Assis Moreira (@ronaldinho) on

Barcelona legend Xavi claimed that he saw a family bond between Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi and Deco. Xavi revealed that when Messi, then a 16-year-old, started training with the first-team squad, Ronaldinho was 26. The Brazilian magician adopted the 16-year-old as his younger brother, said Xavi.

Also Read | Brazilian Footballer Ronaldinho arrested In Paraguay; Details Inside

Ronaldinho had wider impact on Lionel Messi: Xavi

Xavi claimed that Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi shared a great relationship in the dressing room. The Brazilian played an important role in helping a young Messi adapt to the first team. Ronaldinho was the best player in the world at that time, and hence, he had a wider impact on the youngster, said Xavi.

Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi played together for four seasons

Ronaldinho joined Barcelona in 2004 and enjoyed great success with the Spanish giants. He won two LaLiga titles with Barcelona along with a Champions League triumph in 2006. The former Brazilian international then joined AC Milan after four successful seasons in Spain.

Also Read | Ronaldinho jail update: Former midfielder marks 40th birthday with special prison dish

Ronaldinho jail update: Ronaldinho arrested for possessing fake passport

Ronaldinho has been in a Paraguayan prison for the past one month. The Brazilian was arrested for entering Paraguay along with his elder brother using a fake passport. He is likely to stay behind bars for the next five months. The Paraguayan authorities are also investigating allegations of Ronaldinho's involvement in money laundering. 

Also Read | Ronaldinho jail update: Brazilian star struggles as key witness fails to turn up in court

12:29 IST, April 6th 2020