Ronaldo Nazario has recently explained why he had to leave Barcelona after just one season before joining Inter in the summer of 1997, suggesting that Brazilian players ‘always’ leave the Catalan giants ‘on bad terms’.
O Fenomeno was brought to Barcelona by former England manager Bobby Robson, and enjoyed a prolific start to life at Camp Nou, netting 47 goals from 49 appearances across all competitions.
However, Ronaldo’s career with the Blaugrana lasted just one season before he left to join the Nerazzurri, which would bring the first of his two Ballon d’Or wins.
In a recent chat with his former Brazil teammate Romario on his YouTube channel, Ronaldo confirmed the widespread rumours that he left Barcelona because of a disagreement over his contract.
He also noted that several of his compatriots, including Neymar and Ronaldinho, had also experienced similar situations towards the end of their time with Barca.
“Barcelona and the Brazilians have always left each other on bad terms,” Ronaldo said.
“I’d had a spectacular season and agreed to renew my contract, but five days later they told me that it was not possible to continue and they transferred me to Inter.
“It was a real punch in the stomach. I loved the city.”
He continued: “Rivaldo left because of an argument, Ronaldinho and Neymar as well. Look at the history Barcelona has created with so many successful Brazilians, but in the end the relationship deteriorates and ends very badly.”
