Ronaldinho grants first interview since arrest in Paraguay

Brazilian football legend, Ronaldinho has granted his first interview since he was arrested and charged in Paraguay for flying into the country with a fake passport.

Ronaldinho who is now being held under house arrest at a hotel in Paraguay recounted his time in prison while speaking in an interview held under strict health guideline due to coronavirus.

He said: “We were totally surprised to learn that the documents were not legal. Since then our intention has been to collaborate with the justice system to clarify the facts.

“From that moment until today, we have explained everything and facilitated everything that has been requested of us.”

On learning that he would be going to jail, Ronaldinho said: “It was a hard blow, I never imagined that I would go through such a situation. All my life I have sought to reach the highest professional level and bring joy to people with my football.”

Ronaldinho also revealed that he was always getting stopped for autographs even while inside the maximum security Agrupacion Especializada prison.

He also revealed that he feels no ill-will towards the people of Paraguay despite being arrested and charged to court.

He said: “The warmth, affection and respect of all Paraguayans have been felt from the first day I arrived in the country until today, and I am very grateful.

“I have my faith. I always pray for things to go well and hopefully this will be over soon.”

The former Barcelona star stated that the first thing he would do as soon as the situation is finally resolved is to go see his mother.

He said: “The first thing will be to give a big kiss to my mother who has lived through these difficult days since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in her home, then it will be to absorb the impact that this situation has generated and move forward with faith and strength.”