Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi share a historic bond, not only as Barcelona legends but also as friends. So while his appearance in the upcoming documentary Ronaldinho: The One and Only, set to be released on Netflix on April 16, was not a surprise in itself, his story certainly caught everyone’s attention.
The Brazilian icon and Argentine star formed one of the most iconic duos in Rose’s history, playing together in 80 matches between 2004 and 2008, scoring 67 goals. But before the glory, in the early days Leo received all the support and encouragement from Jinho.
Leo thanks Ronaldinho
The documentary ‘Ronaldinho: The One and Only’ takes viewers on a journey through the Brazilian legend’s career, featuring testimonies from some of the greatest stars who shared the field and dressing room with Ronaldinho, including Neymar, Roberto Carlos, Carles Puyol and, of course, Leo Messi.
During the preview, the Argentina national team captain shared a story about his early days with Barra, which later became the successor to the iconic “#10” jersey.
He’s the most important player in the locker room and the way he approached me and treated me from day one made everything so much easier. It allowed me to relax and enjoy the game and just be there in that locker room at that moment. I have always been very grateful to him for everything and he holds a very special place in my heart.
Furthermore, Leo recalled the unforgettable gesture Ronaldinho made towards him during the 2004/05 La Liga game between Bala and Albacete. Leo entered the field at the age of 17 and scored his first goal for the club on matchday 34, but the goal was later disallowed for offside.
Ginho, who had seen the disallowed play and the talent that Leo displayed not only in that match but throughout his time at La Masa, sent a perfect pass to the Argentine’s feet, which Leo converted into a goal.
The crowd cheered him wildly and the hugs he shared with his teammates, including his Brazilian idol, were unforgettable or, in Messi’s words, “crazy.”
“It was crazy to make my debut on that field and score my first goal. Maybe he did it on purpose, maybe he did everything in that moment to make sure I scored. I know him well, I know what kind of person he is…”
“The celebration was so natural, so spontaneous. He picked me up on his back and at that moment I didn’t understand anything. To tell you the truth, I was there at that moment in a dream when I scored at the Camp Nou and, well, I climbed on his back and it went around the world,” Leo recalled.
Thus, beyond the titles, the dribbling and the magic that made Ronaldinho a symbol of world football, his legacy as a generous leader and central figure in the development of new stars is clear.
Stories like Messi’s show that his greatness was not limited to the game, but extended to gestures that shaped careers and left a mark on the history of the sport.
