Ronaldinho (1980– )

Brazilian footballer. An exceptionally skillful attacking player, he was named the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005, and European Footballer of the Year in 2005. He made his debut for the Brazilian national side in 1999 and helped it win the Copa America tournament that year. In 2001 he signed for French club Paris Saint-Germain. While with the club, he was an integral part of the Brazil side that won the 2002 World Cup, scoring two goals in the tournament. After his club side failed to qualify for any European competitions in the 2002–03 season, Ronaldinho moved to Barcelona in Spain in July 2003 for £21 million. The team finished second in the league during his first season, before winning the title in 2004–05 and again the following season when they also won the European Cup.

Career highlights

International appearances (1999– ) 74 (29 goals)

Copa America 1999

Spanish League Championship 2005, 2006

Spanish Super Cup 2005, 2006

World Cup 2002

European Cup 2006

Awards

FIFA World Player of the Year 2004, 2005

European Footballer of the Year 2005

He began his career at Gremio in the Brazilian league, graduating through the youth ranks and making his professional debut in 1998. In 2004 he helped Brazil win the Copa America, their third win in four tournaments. In 2005 he captained Brazil to victory in the Confederations Cup, scoring three goals. In July 2008, he moved to AC Milan in Italy for more than £14 million.

He was first known as ‘Ronaldinho’ (Portuguese for ‘little Ronaldo’) to distinguish him from fellow Brazilian national team player Ronaldo.