Just as Barcelona’s midfield schema Andres Iniesta’s new autobiography, ‘The Move of My Life’ has been released, this little nugget has very much grabbed readers attention featuring a very inspirational moment from former Ballon D’or winner Ronaldinho.
The story begins in 2005, shortly before the Catalonians were due to face La Liga’s top side Real Madrid in the infamous Clasico.
With the Brazilian superstar looking to ‘get inside the heads’ of his talented teammates in order to gain an advantage, Ronaldinho laid this gentle rues on Iniesta and co.
And so it goes…..
A few days before the Clasico against Real Madrid, ‘Dinho called me at home at night. I answered and he told me: ‘Andres, I know it’s 3am, but I have to confess something. In June I will be leaving Barca. My brother (and agent) has an agreement with Real Madrid. It’s an incredible amount that I can’t refuse. You’re young, you can understand… But please do not tell anyone in the locker room or the club, do not betray me, I trust you more than anyone. Andres, good night.’
He didn’t give me time to say anything. The next day, we were in training and I felt an awkward atmosphere around me.
The whole team was silent and they were all greeting Ronaldinho like never…
When the day of the Clasico came (November 19th], in the locker rooms of the Santiago Bernabeu, ‘Dinho told us: ‘Guys, today is a very important game. They are strong, but lately I discovered that we are like family. I called each of you during the night and told you I was leaving in June, but none of you spoke. After that I realised that we were ready to suffer in silence rather than betray each other. I’ll stay here again for a long time… Now let’s go onto the pitch and give a lession to these Real Madrid players!’
Barca, then managed by Dutchman Frank Rijkaard, would go onto claim a famous 3-0 win, with talisman Ronaldinho scoring twice and receiving a rather unexpected standing ovation from their fierce rivals’ supporters due to his on-the-pitch devilry.
Outstanding.