Unveiling the Complex Tale of Ronaldinho’s Strained Relationship with Gremio Fans

Ronaldinho, a football legend cherished by fans worldwide, holds a unique position as a figure even rival supporters appreciate. However, an unexpected twist in this tale emerges from Gremio fans who harbor a distinct disdain for the player, a sentiment heightened by his past association with the club.

The story unfolds in the summer of 2002 when Ronaldinho, then 22 and already a decorated player with state league victories and a senior international call-up, departed Gremio for PSG. While it was anticipated that the club would benefit financially from his move to Europe, the circumstances took an unforeseen turn.

Gremio fans, known for their loyalty, were disheartened as Ronaldinho, a player who had previously professed dedication to the club, left without signing a new contract. Instead, he terminated his contract, allowing him to join PSG without a transfer fee. This move, which appeared to come at the expense of his childhood club, left Gremio fans feeling betrayed.

An unwritten rule in Brazilian football, as explained by a Gremio fan on Reddit, involves players signing new contracts months before their transfer to secure increased wages and a transfer fee that benefits the club. Ronaldinho’s departure, without adhering to this customary practice, left Gremio without compensation.

While some sources claim that PSG paid Gremio $5 million, it is clarified that this was not a conventional transfer fee but a reparation fee mandated by FIFA. The revelation of this detail heightened the sense of injustice felt by Gremio supporters.

Adding to the complexity, Ronaldinho had previously declared his unwavering commitment to Gremio, stating he would play for the club “even for free.” However, his actions told a different story, as he reached an agreement with PSG without informing Gremio beforehand.

In 2010, a glimmer of reconciliation emerged when Ronaldinho initiated talks with Gremio, raising hopes of mending the fractured relationship. Yet, after three months of negotiations, he ultimately accepted an offer from Flamengo, leaving Gremio fans with a lingering sense of disappointment and betrayal. The intricacies of this football saga reveal the complexities within player-club relationships and the enduring impact of controversial departures.