His return to Brazil did not end up like he expected, but it seems Ronaldinho is not done with professional soccer just yet.
His possible next stop: the MLS.
In an interview with FutbolMLS.com, the two-time FIFA World Player of the year talked about his love for the United States and how the league’s growth is attracting talented and experienced players.
“It motivates every single player in the world to want to come here because everyone wants to be where the best players are,” Ronaldinho said.
The midfielder was referring to the wave of big name arrivals in the MLS, like Italy’s legendary ‘Il Architetto’ Andrea Pirlo, British stars Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, Spain’s David Villa, Ivory Coast's Didier Drogba, Ireland's Robbie Keane and Ronaldinho’s good friend Kaka.
Kaka, who had a rough spell with Real Madrid and wasn’t the same in his return to Milan, revived his career after signing with Orlando City. The Brazilian playmaker even earned a place in Dunga’s team for the latest rounds of the South American World Cup Qualifiers.
Needless to say, Kaka is very complimentary of the MLS. And Ronaldinho is aware of his former national team teammate’s opinion of the American league.
“When you hear this coming from one of the biggest names in soccer, it also gives you the desire to come here,” Ronaldinho said. “As I said before, today I’m here doing other things, but who knows what can happen in the future.”
Another possible destination for Ronaldinho is Turkey. Antalyaspor chairman Gultekin Gencer recently claimed that his club is close to signing both Ronaldinho and Pirlo. He said that all the club needs now is to get the financial backup for the signings.
The Italian midfielder would go play in Turkey on loan during the MLS off-season. While the Brazilian star, who is currently without a club after parting ways with Fluminense, would arrive on a free transfer.
"We've had talks with Pirlo and his agent. He is willing to play for Antalyaspor,” Gencer told IHA. “We also have ongoing talks with Ronaldinho and his representatives. He is ready to come to Antalyaspor as well.”
So far, there are no reports of an official MLS offer. But after saying that he wants to play in the US, the 35-year-old might find himself with a solid offer and a decision on his hands before deciding to play in Turkey.
Maybe he doesn’t have the speed and strength of his Barcelona days, but many MLS team could use a veteran as skilled as Ronaldinho.
