Widely regarded as one of football's greatest players ever, Ronaldinho holds a special place in almost every fan's heart, but his life since retirement has been nothing short of controversial. Here's a close look at the Brazilian's humbling fall from grace.
Click through the gallery above to see some pictures of Ronaldinho's recent arrest in Paraguay.
We're used to seeing Ronaldinho surrounded by people, by supporters who've spotted him in the street, or by security protecting him from a crowd of excited fans who remember the Brazilian for his incredible and unique skills out on the field.
Recently, however, pictures emerged of the 39-year-old encircled by a different group of people – police – after he was arrested in Paraguay when he and his brother were caught with fake Paraguayan passports in their possession.
Unfortunately for Ronaldinho fans, seeing the former Gremio playmaker embroiled in controversy is no longer surprising, a far cry from his glorious playing days, particularly at Spanish giants FC Barcelona.
Ronaldinho was and is unlike other football stars. His prime lasted arguably just four seasons during his time at the Catalan club, but he is still held in the highest regard. Why? Because when somebody is that good and brings us that much joy, we forgive them. He gave the sport so many unforgettable moments that we couldn't possibly hold anything against the 2002 FIFA World Cup winner.
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Some supporters believe if he had knuckled down like the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, he'd have been considered better them to this day, while others simply feel it doesn't matter, that he was better, such as Chelsea and Selecao winger Willian, who, in 2019, said: "Ronaldinho was the best of all time. Better than Messi and Cristiano. They score goals, but what Ronnie did was incredible. He was amazing on the field and also scored."
There are many more who hold this belief, but it is sad that we have to go back to about 15 years ago to think of a happy, seemingly disciplined and expressive Ronaldinho. Since officially hanging up his boots in 2018, the Brazilian has had one too many run-ins with the law, having previously been in trouble for unpaid taxes and fines.
Last year, it was reported that he had 57 of his assets seized by Brazilian authorities, with it later being discovered he had just £5 (R85) in his bank account. Ronaldinho caused further concern when he publicly came out in support of then presidential candidate Jair Bolsonaro, a far-right politician who was sworn into office in Brazil in 2019.
Following his recent arrest, Ronaldinho is believed to be facing up to six months in prison in Paraguay, and while it first seemed the fake passport was all he was being held for, it has since been claimed by an investigator that the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner may have been involved in more serious crimes.
As per reports on Wednesday, Barcelona, the club he is most strongly associated with, cut ties with Ronaldinho, adding insult to injury for the Selecao icon. While fans will never forget what he did out on the pitch with the ball at his feet, many will hope to see Ronaldinho take better care of himself and his legacy in the years to come.
Has Ronaldinho been mismanaged, or does he only have himself to blame? Let us know in the comments section below.
