Brazil international Raphinha has responded to legendary striker Ronaldinho’s claims that the current national team is one of the worst in the country’s history.
Ronaldinho was disappointed with Dorvial Junior’s men as they earned a 1-1 draw against the United States in a Copa America warm-up friendly on Thursday night.
The performance was so disappointing that the 2002 world champion criticized the team for its lack of passion and declared that he would not support the team during the next tournament.
Raphinha has now responded to the comments and exposed the 44-year-old’s conversations with teammate Vinicius Jr.
At a press conference, the Barcelona full-back was asked about his idol’s comments regarding the national team. In a candid response, Raphinha disputed Ronaldinho’s claims that the group lacked passion, stating, according to Forbes:
“[The comments were] A surprise not only for me, but for the entire group.
“I think you should know more than me, he never made such a statement. [to us]. On the contrary, he always showed his support for the team. I consider him an idol, a reference. Everyone on the team, not just the players, but all of us who work here, see him as a reference. It has been a hard blow for us.
“Obviously we don’t agree. It’s my third year and I see dedication, desire, [and] Pride in wearing the shirt. I do not agree with what was said, I totally disagree. “Each one has quality, merit.”
