Brazil legend Ronaldinho came out of retirement to play in a tournament in Indonesia.
The 2005 Ballon d'Or winner, who called time on his career back in 2015 after playing with Fluminense, was back showcasing his talents. Ronaldinho was playing for RANS Nusantara FC in a competition that was hosted at the Kanjuruhan Stadium.
Despite a stellar playing career, that saw him play for PSG, Barcelona and AC Milan, Ronaldinho was unable to inspire his side as they lost both of their games without scoring. Both contests ended goalless with RANS losing 4-2 on penalties each time. Arema FC and Persik Kediri both getting the better of them.
Only a week prior Ronaldinho had lined-up in an exhibition match in Miami, leading one team whilst his compatriot Roberto Carlos led the other. The clash in Miami featured several modern day stars, one of which was Paul Pogba, as well as Brazil legends Rivaldo and Cafu.
Ronaldinho's return to the pitch in Indonesia on Sunday was almost 20 years to the day that he celebrated World Cup glory with his nation. Brazil won the 2002 tournament, hosted across Japan and South Korea, after seeing off Germany in the final on June 30 - it remains the country's most recent success.
The now 42-year-old played a staring role in the tournament with his most famous contribution coming against England in the quarter-final. Ronaldinho would score the winner after deceiving David Seaman, who had expected a cross, with a shot from some distance.
Have Your Say! Was Ronaldinho the best Brazilian of his generation? Tell us what you think here.
During his club career the Brazil star excelled at the Nou Camp, helping the Catalans claim Champions League glory in 2006 with victory over Arsenal at the Stade de France. He also added two LaLiga triumphs during a period that is regarded as the peak of his career. A move to AC Milan followed, where he would win the Serie A title in 2011, before heading back to his homeland.
Ronaldinho's legacy remains and former teammate Lionel Messi credits him with changing the culture at Barcelona. He said: “Ronaldinho was responsible for the change in Barca. It was a bad time and the change that came about with his arrival was amazing. In the first year, he didn’t win anything but people fell in love with him. Then the trophies started coming and he made all those people happy. Barca should always be grateful for everything he did.”
