In his new book, Barcelona and Spanish legend Andres Iniesta has revealed an outstanding story about former teammate Ronaldinho, on how he used an extremely risky method to inspire Barcelona to an historic victory over Real Madrid.
Iniesta said:
“A few days before the Clasico against Real Madrid, ‘Dinho’ called me at home at night.
“I answered and he told me: ‘Andres, I know it’s 3am, but I have to confess something. In June I will be leaving Barca. My brother has an agreement with Real Madrid. It’s an incredible amount that I can’t refuse. You’re young, you can understand… But please do not tell anyone in the locker room or the club, do not betray me, I trust you more than anyone. Andres good night.’
“He didn’t give me time to say anything. The next day, we were in training camp and I felt an awkward atmosphere around me. The whole team was silent and they were all greeting Ronaldinho like never…
“When the day of the Clasico came [November 19, 2005], in the locker rooms of Santiago Bernabeu ‘Dinho’ told us: ‘Guys, today is a very important game, they are strong, but these days I discovered that we were like a family. I called each of you during the night and I told you that I was leaving in June, but none of you spoke. After that I realised that we were ready to suffer in silence rather than betray each other. I’ll stay here for a long time… Now let’s go into the field and give a lesson to these players of Real Madrid!”
What an unbelievable story from an unbelievable footballer.