SAO PAULO, Brazil - Ronaldinho plans to play for Brazil at the Olympics in defiance of the wishes of his FC Barcelona club.
"I do not see myself being left out of Beijing," Ronaldinho said during a news conference at a charity event on Tuesday. "I see myself in the Olympics doing good things and bringing home the gold medal."
Barcelona player Ronaldinho of Brazil smiles during a news conference before an exhibition soccer match to help children from GRAAC (Group of Support for Children and Adolescents with Cancer), in Sao Paulo July 8, 2008. [Agencies] |
Ronaldinho was selected to Brazil's Olympic squad on Monday, but a day later Barcelona posted a statement on its Web site saying the former world player of the year "will have to report for training on Monday, the first session of the 2008-09 season."
"The Olympics do not form part of the official FIFA calendar, and no official decision has ever been made in that respect, so the club is under no obligation to allow its player to travel," the statement said.
The Brazilian star, who last played on March 9, was still under contract with Barcelona, even though he has been linked with transfers to Manchester City and AC Milan.
Brazil is scheduled to gather in two weeks for the Olympics -- the only significant title it has never won.
"I feel very motivated and happy for having been summoned to the team," Ronaldinho said. "My aim is now to prepare myself for the Olympic Games -- an honor few players have received."
Ronaldinho's agent and brother, Roberto de Assis, said he was also confident that Ronaldinho would be going to Beijing.
"Barcelona has always treated Ronaldinho very well and we are sure everything will work out and that we will be going to Beijing," he said.
