Ronaldinho talks about Messi, Guardiola and Mourinho

Ronaldinho was the star of the first free-scoring Barcelona attacking trio of the 21st century, alongside Samuel Eto’o and a very young Leo Messi. He recalls that ‘Azulgranas’ side as “a very good team who did it all”, but he shrinks a little from comparisons with the Barcelona side of today. “They are two very different teams, you can’t compare them, though I do think that they both have made history in their day”.

The one thing that ‘Dinho’ is very definite about is the importance of Messi. “He is the best in the world, and there’s nothing more to be said”. About the Barça team right now, he speaks as just another fan, and dreams about winning the Champions League again. “I hope Barcelona win it, but it is going to be very hard, as there are some very good sides, and everyone wants to get to the final”.

Ronaldinho is also very sure that many trophies are won because of decisions taken from the dugout. In this respect he regards Pep Guardiola as “a terrific manager as well as a great friend”, and believes that he would have no difficulties managing “any team”.

Another coach he admires is José Mourinho: “I have a lot of respect for him. I think he is one of the best in the world”.