Arsenal transfer target hits back at Ronaldinho after statement as true feelings made clear

Barcelona winger, and long-term Arsenal transfer target, Raphinha has hit back at comments made by Brazil legend Ronaldinho ahead of this summer's Copa America. The footballing icon caused controversy on Saturday after slamming Dorival Junior's side following a 1-1 draw with USA.

"That's it folks, I've had enough," Ronaldinho wrote on Instagram after the match. "This is a sad moment for those who love Brazilian soccer. It's getting hard to find the spirit to watch the games. This is perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years, it has no respectable leaders, only average players for the majority.

"I've been following football since I was a kid, long before I thought about becoming a player, and I've never seen a situation as bad as this. Lack of love for the shirt, lack of grit and the most important of all: football. I'll repeat, our performance has been one of the worst things I've ever seen. Such a shame. I therefore declare my resignation. I will not watch any CONMEBOL Copa AmericaTM game, nor celebrate any victory."

Arsenal pair Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes both started the game on the bench as Rodrygo opened the scoring inside 20 minutes. Martinelli came on as a substitute whilst his Gunners teammate was left out of the action for the entirety. Christian Pulisic hit back shortly after though with Brazil now just a week away from starting their Copa America campaign against Costa Rica.

It certainly left a negative impact on Ronaldinho, but Raphinha has come back to defend his teammates, saying that the reaction was "a surprise not only for me, but for the whole group." He continued: "I think you must know more than I do, he never made such a statement [to us].

"On the contrary, he always showed his support for the team. I consider him an idol, a reference. Everyone in the team, not just the players, but everyone who works here, sees him as a reference. It has been a hard blow for us.

READ MORE: Arsenal news and transfers LIVE

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta can finally complete Arsenal transfer mission with Oleksandr Zinchenko replacement

"Obviously we do not agree. It's my third year and I see dedication, desire, [and] pride in wearing the shirt. I do not agree with what was said, I totally disagree, each one has quality, merit."

Ronaldinho clarified his statement, explaining that, "I would never abandon Brazilian football, ever. And I'd never say those things you see...

"Actually, these words came from real Brazilian fans, they are real comments that I saw on the internet... Imagine listening to these messages before you play? Nope, motivation goes down...Fan support makes a huge difference to the player, I know what I'm talking about. Guys, what our boys need is support at this time. The more confidence we show, the more confidence they will have on the field.

"That's why, I joined Rexona [deodorant company] in this movement to encourage the Cheer That Doesn't Quit. We are asking everyone to send messages of support and confidence ahead of the CONMEBOL Copa America."

Arsenal have long been linked with Raphinha after he came close to a transfer in 2022. He has been touted as a possible target again this year with Barcelona in need of generating funds and Raphinha reportedly seen as one of the more sellable assets.

He has since been supported by Gabriel, who took to Instagram himself in the aftermath to signal for support.