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Rijkaard blocks ‘DinhoMonday 30 October, 2006Frank Rijkaard believes Ronaldinho will not be leaving Barcelona, despite Milan’s attempts to sign him. “I am not worried by the Rossoneri’s interest,†stated the Coach.
The Brazilian was associated with a switch to the San Siro last summer and recent rumours suggested that they may make a firm offer at the end of this season, seeing as the player has not yet extended his Barca contract.
“I know champions and their priorities – if they feel at ease in a certain environment it is very difficult that they will change,†said Rijkaard.
“The relationship between Ronaldinho and the club – not to mention between the player and the city – is perfect, therefore I do not see any problems.
“Of course you can never be sure in football, but at the time being Milan’s interest does not worry me at all.â€
The Rossoneri, however, have not given up on the dream of signing Ronaldinho and still believe that a transfer is possible.
This is mainly due to the excellent relationship between the Via Turati club and Roberto Assis – the player’s brother and agent, as well as the agent of summer signing Ricardo Oliveira.
Many believe that the £14m paid for the 26-year-old Brazilian hitman, who spent much of last season on loan at Sao Paolo while he recovered from November’s knee ligament injury, was to be considered a sort of down payment guaranteeing the arrival of Ronaldinho in the near future.
However, technical sponsors are now also involved after the Blaugrana received an additional £10m from Nike, as the American company hopes this will help to prevent Ronaldinho from signing for an Adidas team such as Milan.
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