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Ronaldinho could be heading to MLS, but Atlanta United should stay far away

The team that acquired him would be making another mistake seen too often in MLS, signing players past their prime in exchange for the dollars he may bring in the short term.

By Eric Quintana
Carmen Flores/Getty Images

Ronaldinho is, and will always be, a legend. He used to hypnotize us with his skill on the ball, his movements and his goals. There is no doubt his reputation as the former best player in the world will follow him through footy eternity. It's understandable for some Atlanta United fans to be excited given the latest reports regarding the Brazilian star.

But Ronaldinho hasn’t been that player in quite some time. Now, he's merely a shadow of the greatness he once was, a player afforded opportunities because of the name on his back rather than his abilities with a ball. I fear MLS would be making the same mistake in acquiring Ronaldinho.

The most recent tweet regarding the Brazilian international suggests a stint in MLS may very well be in his future.

Admittedly, I too once wanted Ronaldinho for Atlanta United. But at the behest of a fellow AUFC supporter, I began to research the once great 36-year-old. My analysis: objectively, his talent has trailed off tremendously.

If you need proof, here are highlights of one of his game last season with Fluminense. I encourage you to watch highlights from all his games last season.


Having said all this, I cannot deny the marketing power a player like Ronaldinho, EVEN as a player coming to the end of his career, could have for a team like Atlanta United. His name would unquestionably sell the most AUFC jerseys and fans would flock in hopes of seeing a Drogba-like resurgence to his career in MLS.

Would it be worth it? Maybe financially. But eventually the glitter would rub off and people would realize Ronaldinho just isn't the same player he used to be. The team that acquired him would be making another mistake seen too often in MLS, signing players past their prime in exchange for the dollars he may bring in the short term.

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