FCBARCELONA.CAT

16.07.2008 09:25

The Brazilian magician

Marc Guillén

Ronaldinho has been the best example of Brazilian magic ever seen at FC Barcelona. With his eternal smile, creative ability and his idol status among the fans allied with his skill will ensure that his five years at the club will never be forgotten.

Anyone that saw him play at his best for the Blaugrana cannot help but mirror the player's smile when recalling the memory. Leaving aside any down sides, Ronaldinho has been a complete, magical, spell-binding, high-scoring, fantastical player for the club.

The recent history of Barça has seen various Brazilian players appear, with the many of their names beginning with the letter R, but it is Ronaldinho that had the best characteristics from them all. Starting with a little magic of Romario, he had the power of Ronaldo, the effectiveness of Rivaldo and, on top of that, he was a player that brought out the best in his team-mates.

Technique and elasticity

Ronaldinho's technique was one of his most precious assets. The superstar was able to use any part of his body to play the game, with the best example being his trick of knocking the ball on with his back.

But the main thing that will be remembered about him at Barça will be his elasticity. If Michael Laudrup had his step over and Romario had his in-step turn, Ronaldinho delighted everybody with his hip swivel that left opponents in his wake.

Power and speed

During his time at FC Barcelona, Ronaldinho became one of the most complete players the club has ever had as he combined his vision with individual technique and power that made him rise above other players.

The power in his shots from distance and his speed and power when running made him unstoppable. Even the strongest defenders could not stop him when he was in full flow and could only watch him pass or foul him.

In the 2005-05 campaign, Chelsea's John Terry tried to stop him by kicking him down, but it was the Brazilian that won the day with a marvellous goal that helped Barça towards the Champions League final.

Enjoying the game

One key to Ronaldinho's connection with the Barça fans was his ability to smile at all times and appear to be thoroughly enjoying life. In a world of globalisation where players are less and less individual, the Brazilian ensured that everyone knew exactly how he was feeling and when he was happy with the game then so was everybody else.