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Doha, Qatar: When you think about the names to have worn the colours of Flamengo and Paris Saint-Germain over the years, not many will stand out more than that of Ronaldinho.
The Brazilian legend – a football icon all around the globe – spoke to FIFA about his time at the two clubs, who are set to come face to face to decide the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 today, and he made it clear that he will not be choosing one side to support in this final.
“When you have a history with both sides, it’s difficult to choose just one of them. The most important thing is to appreciate what this final represents,” said Ronaldinho. “Flamengo are in great form at the moment and it’s great for us to see a Brazilian club in another big final like this. PSG are also enjoying a good spell; they’re a confident and competitive side.”
Having begun his career at Gremio back in Brazil, Ronaldinho made the move to Paris in 2001, where he began a successful career in European football. With his dazzling footwork and outstanding natural ability, he had no trouble quickly winning over the PSG fans. His impressive displays for the Parisians resulted in a place in the Brazil squad for the FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan 2002, where he became a world champion with the Seleção shortly before signing for Barcelona.
“My time at PSG was a special period of growth and transformation at the club,” he reminisced. “It was around the time when PSG began to cement their place on the world stage, and being a part of that, helping them to forge an identity and leave their mark, is something I’m still very proud of today.”
After spells at Barcelona and AC Milan, Ronaldinho decided to return to his native Brazil in January 2011 when he signed for Flamengo. He played 74 times, scored 28 goals and won the Rio state championship title during his time at the Rio giants.
Contrary to their current situation, the Rubro-negro did not have the financial muscle to put out a star-studded team back then. Despite only being at the club for barely more than a season, he gave the fans some unforgettable memories that they still look back on fondly.
“They were two very important points of my career. What stood out most to me at Flamengo was the size of the club and the support from the fans. Wearing that shirt comes with enormous responsibility, and experiencing the day-to-day of Brazilian football, with that passion and demand, was a very intense experience,” he said.
When Flamengo and PSG come face to face to decide who takes home this latest global competition, Ronaldinho’s loyalty will be very much divided. What he hopes for, though, is for the fans to be as happy as those who were lucky enough to see him play for their club up close.
“I expect it to be a great, high-intensity game, full of technical quality and emotion. Let’s hope that it’s a great spectacle for football.” FIFA
