JUST IN: Lucas Paqueta Joins Newcastle and Liverpool Stars in Facing Ronaldinho’s Criticism

West Ham ace Lucas Paqueta, along with stars from Newcastle and Liverpool, has drawn the ire of football legend Ronaldinho. While English fans focus on the Euros, West Ham, Liverpool, and Newcastle have players participating in the Copa America.

West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta is part of Brazil’s squad despite looming legal issues. His best friend, Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes, and Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson also represent the Selecao. Historically, having a Brazil international on a team has been prestigious, but the Brazilian national team is currently experiencing one of its worst periods.

Brazil typically enters the Copa America as favorites, but their recent performance has been subpar. This decline has even disenchanted Ronaldinho, one of football’s greatest players. Ahead of the tournament in the USA, Ronaldinho criticized Brazil’s current form and declared he would not support the Selecao, including stars from West Ham, Liverpool, and Newcastle. He shared his sentiments on Instagram, stating:

“That’s it folks, I’ve had enough. This is a sad moment to enjoy Brazilian soccer. It’s hard to find the mood to watch the games. This is perhaps the worst time in the last two years, no respected leaders, just average players in their 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 America game, nor celebrate any victory.”

Ronaldinho’s harsh words likely resonate deeply with players like Paqueta and Guimaraes, who grew up idolizing him. For Alisson, a senior member of the Brazil squad, the criticism is also significant. This could be a motivational tactic from Ronaldinho to spur Brazil into better performance, but it poses potential issues for West Ham and Newcastle.

A poor tournament could negatively affect the form and confidence of these key players for the next season. While West Ham remains tied to Paqueta until his legal matters are resolved, Newcastle faces a critical decision regarding Guimaraes. PSG is reportedly interested in activating his release clause.

Paqueta’s performance in the latter half of last season frustrated many West Ham fans, who felt he was “coasting” ahead of an anticipated £85 million move to Manchester City. However, the official charges over alleged involvement in sports betting have halted that move, at least temporarily.

Newcastle had considered reuniting Paqueta and Guimaraes, who previously played together at Lyon, before West Ham acquired Paqueta for £51 million. Now, Newcastle may need to sell Guimaraes to comply with financial regulations and make new signings.

In summary, Ronaldinho’s public criticism of the Brazilian national team has far-reaching implications for West Ham, Liverpool, and Newcastle, especially as they look to maintain or improve their players’ morale and performance amid a challenging Copa America campaign.