Brazil is set to play its inaugural match of the Copa América against Costa Rica in the United States on June 24. However, the national team is under heavy criticism from former Brazilian legend Ronaldinho Gaúcho, who expressed his disappointment with the team’s recent performances.
Ronaldinho described the current Brazilian squad as “perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years,” citing a lack of “respectable” leaders and a roster filled with “mostly average players.” He voiced his frustration on Instagram, stating, “That’s it, friends, I’ve had enough. This is a sad moment for anyone who loves Brazilian football. It’s hard to find the energy to watch the matches. This is probably one of the weakest teams in recent years, without any respectable leaders, mostly consisting of average players.”
Brazil, a five-time World Cup winner, has been struggling recently, securing only one win from their last eight international friendlies. Their latest performance was a 1-1 draw against the USA on June 13.
The team aims to reclaim glory by securing their tenth Copa América title. However, their recent track record has been disappointing, with more defeats (5) than victories (3) in 2023, a scenario not seen since 1963.
Ronaldinho further criticized the team in a YouTube interview, stating that the Canarinha lack “joy,” “grit,” “commitment,” and “everything.” He lamented, “I’ve been following football since I was a child, long before thinking of becoming a player, and I had never seen such a bad situation. There’s a lack of love for the jersey, a lack of determination, and most importantly: football.”
The former FC Barcelona star and Ballon d’Or winner believes this is the worst performance he has ever seen from the Brazilian national team. Ronaldinho concluded his remarks by saying he would not be watching any forthcoming Copa América matches nor celebrating any victories, labeling the team’s current performance as “a disgrace.”
Brazil is in Group D and will face Paraguay and Colombia after their opening match against Costa Rica. The team and its fans hope for a turnaround, despite Ronaldinho’s harsh criticism.