UAE club decide against signing Brazilian star.
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How times have changed for the buck-toothed former World player of the year Ronaldinho. According to Sky Sports, UAE club AL Shabab have turned down the chance of securing his services.
There once was a time when the player could walk into any team in the world. His talents arguably kicked off the current era of Barcelona dominance when he formed a formidable partnership with Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto’o to spearhead the Catalan attack.
Ronaldinho continued to play at the highest level despite rumours of a party-boy lifestyle. But the player was never again to reach those heights after an underwhelming spell departure for AC Milan.
The forward is currently playing back in his homeland for Brazilian side Atletico Miniero where he has been linking up to devastating effect with former Manchester City striker Jo.
But the player is ready to leave the club should the right offer come in and that led to his services being touted to clubs in the Gulf region.
Al Shabab vice-president Khalid Bu Hamaid turned down the chance though, citing the player’s high price tag and off the pitch lifestyle. Bu Hamaid suggested the club had little chance of controlling him for Dubai tastes if others were incapable of doing so in Barcelona.
Turkish side Besiktas were rumoured to be interested last month but the player’s brother ruled out a move so Ronaldinho’s remains uncertain.