Flamengo deny Ronaldinho exit rumours

Brazilian side Flamengo have moved to deny reports that star player Ronaldinho will quit the club at the end of the season.

The Brazil international enjoyed a promising start to his career in Rio de Janeiro since arriving from Milan in January 2011, but has seen a major dip in form this season.

The 32-year-old was heavily criticized for his under-par showings this term and even the player himself admitted that he could quit Flamengo at the end of the season.

However, Flamengo director Paulo Cesar Coutinho claims that Ronaldinho will see out his contract that does not expire before June 2014.

“Even if Ronaldinho was not brilliant against Vasco da Gama, you could tell that he made the difference,” Coutinho is quoted as saying in Lancenet.

“He made some good passes and he was one of the best players in the game.

“I am sure that he did not make such comments because he is leaving. Besides, he intends to see out his contract, which expires in 2014.”

Ronaldinho joined Flamengo in a €3 million deal from Milan in January 2011 and managed to score 18 goals in 44 league games during his first year at the club.

His form has dropped significantly since and fans believe the player’s dismal performances are the main reason behind team’s poor showings in this year’s Copa Libertadores.