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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Ronaldinho slammed Brazil for their poor form</li><li>Vowed to not watch Copa America</li><li>Raphinha says former player wanted tickets</li></ul>

'He asked Vinicius Junior for tickets!' - Raphinha laughs off Ronaldinho's criticism of Brazil as icon says he will refuse to watch Copa America

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The Barcelona forward responded robustly to <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/brazil-player-ratings-vs-mexico-endrick/bltb7fa920cd13964b8" target="_blank">recent criticisms from football legend Ronaldinho </a>regarding the current state of the Brazilian national team. Ronaldinho, known for his illustrious career and magical skills,<a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/vinicius-junior-rodrygo-ronaldinho-brazil-worst-teams-boycotts-copa-america/blt580a7df8af77b4cf" target="_blank"> had voiced strong disapproval of Brazil's current squad</a> and labelled it as "one of the worst teams". He also vowed that he would not watch the Selecao in action in Copa America as he is fed up with the poor performances of the team.In an Instagram post, Ronaldinho wrote: "That's it folks, I've had enough. 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."

WHAT HAPPENED?

In a revealing statement, Raphinha disclosed that despite his harsh words, Ronaldinho had asked Vinicius Jr. for tickets to watch Brazil live in the United States. "Vinicius told me that Ronaldinho had requested tickets to see our games," Raphinha told reporters. Raphinha's comment has added a layer of irony to the situation, suggesting that Ronaldinho's public criticism might not fully align with his private actions.

WHAT RAPHINHA SAID

Raphinha did not shy away from directly addressing Ronaldinho's comments. "It's surprising to hear such strong words from someone we all look up to," Raphinha said. "We respect Ronaldinho for what he has achieved, but this is a new generation with different strengths. We need encouragement and constructive criticism, not just negativity. We are working hard to bring glory back to Brazil. 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. 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."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

With players like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo leading the charge, and Raphinha's unwavering belief in the team's potential, Brazil aims to overcome any challenges and critics. The clash of generations, exemplified by the exchanges between Ronaldinho and Raphinha, adds an intriguing narrative to Brazil's Copa America journey. They will play their first match against Costa Rica on June 24.

WHAT NEXT FOR BRAZIL?

'He asked Vinicius Junior for tickets!' - Raphinha laughs off Ronaldinho's criticism of Brazil as icon says he will refuse to watch Copa America | Goal.com South Africa

Raphinha hit back at Ronaldinho&apos;s criticism of Brazil and revealed that the ex-midfielder had asked Vinicius Jr. for tickets to watch Copa America.

&apos;He asked Vinicius Junior for tickets!&apos; - Raphinha laughs off Ronaldinho&apos;s criticism of Brazil as icon says he will refuse to watch Copa America